A Coach’s Stand: Sunday Oliseh’s Choice to Forgo Legal Action
Former Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has opened up about his decision not to pursue legal action against the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for unpaid salaries. His choice, he explained, was driven by a deep sense of patriotism and respect for his country.
Oliseh, now 51, revealed that the NFF still owes him $26,000 in unpaid wages from his tenure as national team coach between 2015 and 2016. Speaking on the Home Turf podcast, he expressed frustration over the lingering debt but made it clear that he would not take legal action against the federation.
“Till today, I am the only Nigerian coach who ever resigned. And till today, they are still owing me two months’ salary, which is $26,000,” Oliseh said. Despite the financial loss, he emphasized that his decision was not born out of weakness, but rather a commitment to his country.
Many people have advised Oliseh to take the matter to FIFA, the global football governing body, believing he has a strong case. “A lot of people have asked me to take the NFF to court. If I take the case to FIFA, I will win,” he said. However, he warned that the media coverage could paint a different picture.
“If I take the case to FIFA, I will win. But when the news breaks, the headlines won’t say ‘Oliseh takes NFF to court,’ they will say ‘Oliseh takes Nigeria to court.’ And that’s not something I want to be associated with,” he continued.
Oliseh stressed that his decision was rooted in patriotism rather than a lack of courage. “I will not take my fatherland to a Western court. I love my country, and no matter what, I don’t want to be seen as someone fighting against Nigeria.”
The End of an Era
Oliseh’s time as Super Eagles coach ended abruptly in 2016 after disagreements with the NFF over unpaid salaries and alleged interference in team management. He became the first Nigerian coach to voluntarily step down from the role, a move that sparked significant controversy at the time.
Despite the challenges, Oliseh remains one of Nigeria’s most vocal voices in football. He has continued to speak out on issues affecting the sport, including the persistent problem of unpaid wages and poor treatment of local coaches.
His latest comments have reignited discussions about the long-standing issue of financial mismanagement within Nigerian football. The NFF has faced ongoing criticism for its handling of finances related to national team coaches and players.
Over the years, several coaches and players have raised concerns about delayed or unpaid salaries and allowances. Some have taken their cases to FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber, seeking justice through international channels.
A Legacy on the Pitch
Before becoming a coach, Oliseh enjoyed a distinguished playing career. He earned 63 caps for Nigeria and scored three goals. His career took him to top European clubs such as Ajax Amsterdam, Borussia Dortmund, and Juventus.
As a player, Oliseh was part of the Nigeria squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. He also represented his country in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. One of his most memorable moments came during the 1998 tournament in France, where he scored against Spain.
The Broader Implications
Oliseh’s decision not to pursue legal action highlights the complex relationship between Nigerian football administrators and those who serve the national team. It raises questions about loyalty, pride, and the broader challenges facing the sport in the country.
While some may view his choice as a missed opportunity for justice, others see it as a powerful statement of national identity. His story serves as a reminder of the emotional and cultural dimensions of football in Nigeria.