FIFA threatens to suspend Nigeria if Pinnick is sacked

The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA), has warned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), that it will be suspended if Amaju Pinnick is removed as president.

In a letter signed by Acting Secretary General of FIFA ,Marjkus Kattner addressed to Pinnick on April 11, 2016, FIFA warned that if last week’s decision of the Federal High Court in Jos is allowed to stand, it will be considered as an interference in the internal affairs of the NFF. The letter read in part.

“The decision of the Federal High Court in Jos, if implemented, would likely be considered as an interference in the internal affairs of the NFF and the case would be brought to the highest authorities of FIFA for consideration of sanctions, including the suspension of the NFF,”
“We would Iike to remind you that according to articles 13 and 17 of the FIFA Statutes, all members associations have to manage their affairs independently and with no influence from third parties In addition and according to article 68 of the FIFA Statutes, recourse to ordinary courts of Iaw is prohibited unless specifically provided for in the FIFA regulations.
“Furthermore, it is the duty of each member association to ensure that these provisions are implemented by its members and possibly take sanctions against those which fail to respect these obligations.”

 A high court sitting in Jos, Plateau State Nigeria had on Friday, April 8, nullified the September 2014, election that put Pinnick in office following petition by his opponent, Chris Giwa faction.