Former Nigerian goalkeeper Idah Peterside has called for a ban on Victor Osimhen from the national team unless he apologizes to coach Finidi George for his recent outburst on social media.
In a widely circulated video on X (formerly Twitter), Peterside criticized Osimhen’s behavior as disrespectful and unacceptable.
“I believe action should be taken, or he should be banned from the national team. Allowing such behavior to go unchecked would harm Nigerian football and disrespect those who have served our country,” Peterside stated on social media.
“Finidi George is a legend. You don’t publicly disrespect him. If Osimhen had issues, he should have called Finidi directly. His actions show irresponsibility, which is unexpected. The NFF should demand an apology from Osimhen for his remarks. Our national team is sacred. In our days, we respected the jersey and those who came before us. Osimhen needs to apologize openly to Finidi, the NFF, former footballers, and Nigerians.”
The controversy erupted after Finidi expressed frustration over the lack of support from the NFF during a meeting with Sports Minister John Enoh in Abuja. He alleged that certain players, backed by influential figures, were untouchable and undisciplined. It was rumored that he specifically referred to Osimhen.
In response, Osimhen went live on Instagram, expressing his anger and disappointment. He declared that he had lost respect for Finidi, asserting that respect should be mutual and vowing to share evidence of their conversation to clarify the situation.
