“IMC’s Reconciliation Approach Lacks Genuineness” – Abayomi Ogunjimi

Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, President of the Authentic Nigeria Football & Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC), has criticised the Interim Management Committee’s (IMC) recent reconciliation efforts, describing the process as lacking transparency and genuine stakeholder involvement.

Speaking from London, where he is currently leading ANFASSC’s support for the Super Eagles at the Unity Cup, Ogunjimi acknowledged the intentions of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) to unify Supporters Clubs. However, he raised concerns about the structure and execution of the stakeholders’ meeting held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

Ogunjimi recalled that on 13 February, six Supporters Clubs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the NFF office, which outlined a commitment to joint decision-making on major issues. He questioned the absence of consultation regarding corporate sponsorships visibly represented at the Lagos meeting, including Wakanow, Cards, and Kalabash.

“The signatories were not informed or carried along in discussions concerning these sponsorships,” he said. “That raises fundamental questions about the sincerity and openness of the process.”

He also pointed out the absence of key figures who signed the MOU, including himself, as a serious flaw in the reconciliation effort. “How can a reconciliation process be taken seriously when the main stakeholders are not even present?” he asked.

Ogunjimi emphasised that unity must be founded on respect and inclusive dialogue, not imposed from above. He reminded stakeholders that Supporters Clubs are duly registered under Nigerian law through the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), and are therefore not subject to arbitrary directives.

He referenced a recent engagement with Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, who reaffirmed the legal autonomy and rights of Supporters Clubs.

While open to collaboration, Ogunjimi reiterated his alignment with the NSC’s view that unity at national team matches can be achieved through shared songs and coordinated in-stadium support, without dismantling existing structures.

“Reconciliation must not come at the expense of integrity,” he said. “It should be anchored on trust, inclusiveness, and respect for the identity of each organisation.”