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Tension brews as Save Nigeria Football Movement plans nationwide protest
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The Save Nigeria Football Movement (SNFM) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on November 17, 2025, demanding sweeping reforms in Nigerian football governance and the removal of key officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Ladi Waidi, the group urged football fans, stakeholders, and the general public to converge on the NFF headquarters in Abuja to “end bad governance and corruption in Nigerian football.”
The SNFM accused NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, who has held the position for over a decade, of incompetence and corruption. The movement alleged that his continued leadership has hindered the progress of Nigerian football.
“We insist that we will no longer tolerate the mismanagement and corruption that has plagued Nigerian football for years. It’s time for a change, and we are calling on all Nigerians to join us on November 17 to demand a better future for our football,” the statement read.
The group also questioned the NFF’s recent claims of success in securing playoff qualification, accusing the federation of sidelining the National Sports Commission (NSC) in its acknowledgments. It further called for greater transparency and accountability in football administration.
However, the Federal Government has issued a stern warning against the planned protest, labeling it an “illegal gathering” that could threaten public peace.
According to a government source quoted in a counter statement from the Presidential Villa, authorities are aware of “clandestine moves by some unregistered groups” to incite unrest under the guise of football reform.
“The government has classified any unauthorized protest against any institution of government as illegal,” the source said. “Commissioners of police across the country have been placed on alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order.”
The government further cautioned citizens to refrain from actions that could “jeopardize national peace,” urging dialogue as the appropriate means to address grievances.
“Let us not allow a moment of frustration to undo years of hard work,” the statement concluded. “Instead, let us recommit to peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.”
The standoff underscores growing tensions between football stakeholders demanding accountability and government authorities seeking to maintain control over public demonstrations.
