Forum of Civil Society organisations (FCSO), a coalition of civil groups, non-governmental organisations, socio economic cum ethnic groups concerned with the advocacy of national development and promotion of good governance in Nigeria, has called on the Supreme Court to effectively and quick deliver justice in the legal tussle rocking the Nigeria’s Football Federation (NFF).
The apex court is expected to commence hearing on the leadership between Amaju Pinnick-led board of the NFF and Ambassador Chris Giwa-led group.
Addressing newsmen in Abuja, yesterday, the coordinator of the forum, Comrade Ishaku Nok, said the apex court should proceed with the case without fear or favour, saying judgment of the judges of the Supreme Court will laid solid foundation for the respect of law by those that administer football in country and also clear the air for peace to return to the sector.
The coalition insisted that the assertions made by the president of the NFF, Amaju Pinnick that FIFA would suspend Nigeria from international football if the judgment of the Supreme Court do not favour his board is false and untrue since the world soccer governing body has not done so in the recent court ruling in Egypt and Argentina.
“We wish to state that the Supreme Court should as a matter of urgency proceed with the case between Amaju Pinnick and Ambassador Chris Giwa without fear or favour,” he said.
Also a renowned lawyer and the head of Emepu chambers, Barrister kaodichukwu Emezue has stated that those flying the FIFA kite have something to hide because the laws of the continental football bodies cannot be superior to the laws of any country.
According to him, FIFA and CAF’s laws if domesticated in Nigeria, could be referred to an act of the parliament and as such cannot be superior to the constitution of the country.
He said: “Those hiding under FIFA or whatever law that is unknown to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are mischievous and as such cannot be trusted. They hide under these laws to cheat and humiliate others. I am sure they are afraid of something,”