Football fans in Ebonyi State have condemned the decision of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to strip Senegal of its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.

Recall that CAF stripped Senegal of the trophy following Morocco’s protest after the controversial walkout by Senegalese players during the final in Rabat in January.

Some respondents who spoke on Wednesday in Abakaliki expressed displeasure over the decision noting that Nigeria should focus on addressing its domestic football challenges.

A former Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi State, Charles Akpu-Enika, said CAF had yet to recover from the fallout of the controversial final.

“CAF seems to have a soft spot for Morocco, as its actions portray attempts to pacify the North African nation due to its influence in continental football.

“Nigeria should, however, pay less attention to the issue and focus on the consequences of missing two consecutive World Cups, the first since 1990,” he said.

A former Chairman of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) in Ebonyi State, Godwin Eze, supported the view, noting that CAF’s action had affected its credibility.

“This is the first time in recent history that a continental or global football body would strip a champion of its title after such a controversial final.

“We should, however, allow Morocco and Senegal to resolve the matter, especially as issues surrounding the detention of some Senegalese fans are still ongoing,” he said.

He added that both countries would still feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Nigeria would be dealing with the disappointment of missing the tournament.

A businessman and football enthusiast, Abel Okamkpa, urged Nigerians to focus on ensuring that the country qualifies for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

“The petition by the Nigeria Football Federation against DR Congo has been rejected by FIFA, and there are reports of a possible appeal.

“This reflects the poor state of our football and the urgent need to prevent further decline,” he said.

Mr Okamkpa added that Senegal and Morocco had built strong football systems that consistently deliver positive results.

A cybersecurity analyst and football enthusiast, Rose Okeh, urged Nigerians to support the Super Eagles in overcoming the disappointment of missing the World Cup.

She said, “The players need motivation as they prepare for the 2030 qualifiers, especially as their counterparts get ready for the 2026 tournament. The Federal Government must take urgent steps to address the steady decline in Nigerian football.

“We cannot dwell on the Senegal and Morocco issue when Nigeria, once regarded as the giant of Africa, will miss consecutive World Cups.”

(NAN)