A contentious scandal has engulfed Rivers United FC regarding its alleged mistreatment of 17-year-old player Seiyefa Jackson.
The Sport Integrity Foundation has vehemently criticized the club, alleging that its actions have effectively labeled it as an “unsafe haven” for aspiring young footballers.
According to the Secretary Sport Integrity Foundation, Godwin Dele, in a statement on Wednesday, the Rivers United FC declared the teenager “wanted” on social media after his parents withdrew him from the club due to concerns over his mental health and sporting development.
The foundation claimed that this action violated the Child Rights Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and international principles on child rights.
The Sport Integrity Foundation alleged that Rivers United FC’s actions have put Seiyefa’s football career, mental wellbeing, and physical security at risk.
“The club was insensitive to the dangers its actions may bring on the 17-year-old’s life, showing they have no regard for sports integrity,” it stated.
The foundation is calling on the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to establish a safeguarding framework and national safe principles on sports to prevent similar incidents in the future.
It also expressed concern about the need to safeguard the nation’s sports system by upholding the highest standards of integrity.
The foundation urged the relevant authorities to take action against Rivers United FC for its alleged reckless behavior.
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