A scandal of significant proportions has erupted surrounding Rivers United FC, with allegations emerging that the club has mistreated 17-year-old player Seiyefa Jackson. The Sport Integrity Foundation has vehemently condemned the club’s actions, labeling it an “unsafe haven” for young and aspiring footballers.
According to Godwin Dele, Secretary of the Sport Integrity Foundation, in a statement released on Wednesday, the situation unfolded when Seiyefa’s parents withdrew him from the club due to concerns about his mental health and sporting development. In a shocking response, Rivers United FC took to social media to declare the teenager “wanted,” sparking widespread outrage and criticism.
The Sport Integrity Foundation has denounced the club’s actions as unacceptable and potentially harmful to the young player’s well-being. By declaring Seiyefa “wanted” on social media, the club may have inadvertently exposed the teenager to undue stress, scrutiny, and potential harm. The foundation’s criticism highlights the need for football clubs to prioritize the welfare and safety of their young players, ensuring that their environments are conducive to their development and well-being.
The Sport Integrity Foundation further accused Rivers United FC of violating the Child Rights Act of Nigeria and international child rights principles due to their handling of 17-year-old player Seiyefa Jackson’s situation. By declaring Seiyefa “wanted” on social media after his parents withdrew him from the club, Rivers United FC allegedly put the teenager’s football career, mental wellbeing, and physical security at risk.
The foundation condemned the club’s actions as insensitive and reckless, demonstrating a blatant disregard for sports integrity. To prevent similar incidents, the Sport Integrity Foundation is calling on the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to establish a safeguarding framework and national safe principles on sports.
This framework should prioritize the protection of young athletes like Seiyefa and ensure that sports organizations uphold the highest standards of integrity. The foundation urged authorities to take action against Rivers United FC for their alleged misconduct, emphasizing the need to safeguard Nigeria’s sports system.
