Bashir Ahmad, a former Digital Communications Assistant to erstwhile Muhammadu Buhari, has dragged Super Eagles and Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over a ‘derogatory’ comment.
Before Leverkusen’s Europa League home game against Qarabag on Thursday, Boniface was presented with his Golden Boot award as joint top scorer of the competition last season.
Boniface then posted a video of the Golden Boot award on his X handle with the caption:“Aboki may think that it’s an iron.”
Reacting to the post, which has been deleted, Ahmad expressed his displeasure over the term ‘Aboki’ used by Boniface.
According to Ahmad, the comment by the striker may cause disunity.
“I write to the Nigeria Football Federation
@theNFF to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding recent comments made by Boniface a prominent player of our national team, the Super Eagles,” the former aide wrote on his X.
“His comment has the potential to promote disunity, which is contrary to the ideals that our nation holds dear. Nigeria, as a diverse and culturally rich country, has always celebrated unity in diversity.
“Our national sports teams, including the Super Eagles, have been a source of pride and unity for all Nigerians. These teams serve as a unifying force, transcending ethnic, religious, and regional differences. They bring us together and allow us to celebrate our shared love for the beautiful game.
“However, it is disheartening to witness a player of the Super Eagles making statements that appear to sow division or discord. We, as lovers of Nigerian unity, believe that unity and cohesion are essential for the success of our national teams. Therefore, it is crucial that we condemn any actions or remarks that may undermine this unity.
“I kindly request that the Nigeria Football Federation takes this matter seriously and addresses it appropriately.
“I look forward to seeing positive steps taken to address it.
“Bashir Ahmad.”
Boniface has scored 10 goals, made four assists in 12 games in all competitions for Leverkusen this season.
He marked his Super Eagles debut with an assist in their 6-0 win against São Tomé and Principe in September’s 2023 AFCON qualifiers.
