Sampson Siasia Speaks Out on Allegations and FIFA Ban

[Scholar]

Former Nigerian football coach, Sampson Siasia, expressed his feelings of abandonment by Nigeria during a challenging period in his career. Speaking to Athlist, Siasia addressed the bribery allegations that led to his ban by FIFA.

Siasia questioned the evidence behind the bribery allegations, emphasizing that no proof was presented. He recounted an encounter with an individual from Australia who approached him for a coaching position. Unbeknownst to Siasia, this person was known to FIFA as a match-fixer.

He explained that FIFA was aware of his interactions with this individual regarding a potential coaching role in Australia, where Siasia had previously played. Despite his lack of affiliation with FIFA directly, Siasia believed that FIFA should have informed him directly about their investigation rather than going through the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

Siasia expressed frustration over the communication breakdown, revealing that he discovered FIFA's investigation only two days before his ban. By then, the time to respond had elapsed, leaving him little opportunity to defend himself.

Attempting to navigate the situation, Siasia tried to engage with FIFA for a hearing but was directed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS). He highlighted the challenges of finding a sports lawyer in Nigeria on short notice, which further complicated his situation.

Siasia also shared ongoing personal struggles related to the legal proceedings, revealing that he is being sued by the individual who assisted him with the appeal brief. Despite their initial agreement being in euros, the individual is demanding €300,000, adding to Siasia's hardships.

In conclusion, Siasia expressed disappointment with the lack of support and scrutiny from Nigerians during this ordeal, believing that better oversight could have prevented his current predicament.