Nigeria Leagues
NPFL: Enyimba responds to Brown Ideye’s allegations, labels claims “self-serving”
By Dayo Awoniyi
Enyimba FC has publicly addressed allegations made by former Super Eagles forward Brown Ideye, describing his recent comments on player welfare at the club as “misleading” and “self-serving.”
Ideye, who signed for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) giants last season in a highly publicized move, had accused the club of poor player treatment and inadequate remuneration, claiming some players earned as little as ₦7,000 per day and were denied match bonuses.
In a detailed response, Enyimba dismissed the claims, insisting that the comments do not reflect the reforms currently being implemented under the leadership of Club Chairman and ex-international, Kanu Nwankwo.
“The accusations are not only inaccurate but appear designed to promote a personal narrative,” a club official said. “This administration has prioritized transparency, structure, and improved welfare across the board.”
Ideye, who arrived at the Aba-based club on a reported ₦1 million monthly salary—one of the highest in the team—also received benefits such as ₦65,000-per-night hotel accommodation and air travel for away fixtures, reflecting his high-profile status.
However, club insiders argue that the 35-year-old failed to deliver on the pitch, scoring just five goals in all competitions, a figure seen as falling short of expectations.
“His performance simply did not justify the investment,” an official told reporters. “We expected leadership and impact, but neither materialized.”
Multiple sources within the club also pointed to internal tensions, noting that Ideye’s presence may have caused friction in the dressing room. Reports suggest that his signing was primarily a boardroom decision, and not one fully supported by the coaching staff.
“The head coach was never fully aligned with bringing him in,” one official confirmed. “It’s clear now that it was a misjudgment.”
In response to Ideye’s claims about poor welfare, the club outlined several reforms introduced under Kanu’s tenure, including a new structured bonus system. The former system, which relied heavily on unpredictable end-of-season government funding, has been replaced with performance-based payments, including double bonuses for both home and away wins.
Additionally, the club disclosed that both Kanu and the Sporting Director have, on occasion, personally funded team bonuses—reportedly contributing between ₦500,000 and ₦1 million—to further motivate the players.
“All player entitlements, including those of departing players, have been settled in full and on time,” the club emphasized. “Anyone can verify this with team captains or coaching staff.”
Club officials say Ideye’s comments appear to be driven more by personal disappointment than factual concern.
“His outbursts seem more about grabbing attention than offering an honest critique,” one official said. “Enyimba is focused on moving forward.”
Despite the controversy, the club reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, player welfare, and the long-term restoration of its dominance in Nigerian football.
As for Ideye, his brief and contentious stint with Enyimba may have ended, but his remarks could spark broader discussions around player welfare, club management, and leadership accountability in the NPFL.
