I will not apologize to NFF – Okocha

By Olaolu Joseph
Former Super Eagles skipper, Austin Okocha, insists he has done nothing wrong that warrants an apology to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Okocha had expressed dissatisfaction with the affairs of the current leadership of the NFF.
According to the former Bolton Wanderers captain, the three-time African champions may struggle to win any trophies if the NFF continues with its current management style.
The NFF recently announced Eric Chelle as the new Super Eagles head coach, a development that did not sit well with many football stakeholders in Nigeria.
Okocha was among those who questioned Chelle’s qualifications for the role.
The Olympic gold medalist suggested that a new administration should take over the affairs of the NFF.
Despite criticism from some fans and pundits over his comments, the former Hull City player maintained that he cannot be pressured into apologizing to the NFF.
“I have received a series of messages asking me to apologize to the NFF, and my question is, ‘For what? For demanding a better committee?’ No, I can’t apologize for merely expressing my opinion. Don’t we have the right to freedom of speech in Nigeria?” Okocha was quoted as saying by Owngoal Nigeria.
“Football is the only thing that keeps Nigeria united. It is our only source of joy. If you politicize it, what hope will we have for tomorrow? We must be free to express our minds,” said the former Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder.