Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s government’s failure to pay allowances and bonuses to Super Eagles players.

Mr Obi disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, following reports that the players and officials boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday, thereby disrupting their preparation for Thursday’s first semi-final of the FIFA World Cup Africa Playoff Tournament against Gabon at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

Mr Obi said, “It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances. We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a ‘now disgraced country’.”

The politician added, “When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth that hard work and service are not rewarded. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better.”

Super Eagles are expected to resume training after the Nigeria Football Federation resolves the outstanding payments.

According to the team skipper, William Troost-Ekong, in a post on X on Tuesday, once the issue is resolved, the players would be the first to confirm it.

The result of the match will play a significant factor in determining whether Nigeria qualify for the expanded 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, from June 11 to July 19.