FG Sets Up Investigation Into Abuja Stadium Vandalism Following FIFA's Ban

The Federal Government of Nigeria has set up an investigating committee following world football governing body, FIFA's indefinite ban on Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja from hosting international matches for fans' action after the Nigeria, Ghana match.

​​​​​​The ban on Wednesday came after angry Nigerian fans invaded the stadium on Tuesday following their nation’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.

On Tuesday, the newly renovated turf hosted the final leg of the Nigeria vs Ghana World Cup play-off but the Ghanaians snatched the ticket from their host in a dramatic fashion through away goal rule.

On Thursday, Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) broke off the Super Eagles' technical crew and look to appoint another for future challenges.

It was sad moments for Nigerian as they will be missing their first World Cup appearance in almost 16 years but not enough to destroy a national football asset.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare described the acts of vandalism as saddening and unacceptable.

His words: “Nigerians must stop destroying Government property. Anyone identified to be culpable in acts of vandalism at the national stadium will be prosecuted by the Federal Government. This must stop.

"The willful destruction of Government property across the country is unacceptable and must be condemned. While the failure to qualify is regrettable, the destruction is unacceptable and unjustified.

"The federal government has now set up a panel to investigate the destruction of the stadium by fans.

“I am giving this assurance that the necessary steps will be taken to deal with the issues that have led to Nigeria’s inability to qualify. All I am asking for now is patience from millions of Nigerians.” Dare said.

The members of the Investigative Panel to look into the post match vandalisation and destruction of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja are:

Retired DIG Sanni Usman – Chairman

Dr. Henry Nzekwu – Vice Chairman

Retired Navy Commodore Omatseye

Alhaji Abba Yola

Dr. Simon Ebhojiaye, Director Federations and Elite Athletes Department of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Mrs. Tayo Oreweme

Mr. Mitchell Obi

Representative of the Director-General, Department of State Security (DSS).

Olumide Bamiduro of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports will serve as secretary.

The terms of reference for this investigative panel will be communicated in due course.