A former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye, has denied media reports suggesting he called for retired footballers who end up broke to be jailed.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner came under fire last week after a comment he made during an online debate was widely circulated by several outlets, with many accusing him of being insensitive to the plight of former Nigerian players.
In a statement released on Sunday, Ideye described the reports as false and a misrepresentation of his position.
“Let me be clear: These statements are completely false and misrepresent my views,” he said in the statement titled Setting the Record Straight.
The former West Bromwich Albion forward said his views have always centred on support for footballers and athletes, particularly in addressing the challenges they face after retirement.
“I would never suggest punitive action towards anyone who struggles financially or otherwise.
“Instead, I advocate for focus to be on offering all necessary support, resources, trainings and mentorship programmes to help players/athletes navigate the transition from sports to life after the game,” Ideye explained.
He added that conversations about the welfare of footballers should be approached with compassion, not condemnation.
“It’s important to approach these conversations with empathy and solutions, not condemnation,” he said.
The former Super Eagles star also condemned the reports as damaging to his character and urged the media to avoid false attributions.
“This article is misleading of my person and character, and I strongly condemn it.
“I urge the public to disregard it and ask for the media to desist from false claims and publications as such stories only bring disrepute and sow seeds of discord,” he said.
On social media, Ideye further warned against hasty conclusions and misinterpretations of his comments.
“School is not a scam, try to learn how to read and understand the whole story before jumping into conclusions,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
The controversy began days earlier after Ideye advised active footballers to start saving money early in their careers.
His advice came in response to ex-defender Taribo West’s emotional outburst at the burial of late goalkeeper Peter Rufai, where West accused football authorities of neglecting Nigerian legends.
During the online debate, Ideye encouraged players to be financially disciplined. “Footballers, start saving for your future from day one.
“No matter how small your salary is, put something aside for your retirement,” the former footballer wrote.
He also stressed the importance of having the right support system, noting that success after retirement depends on good people and a reliable partner.
But in response to a follower, Ideye had written: “They should be jailed for life if, after they retired from playing, they can’t feed themselves.”
The 34-year-old, who recently announced his retirement from international football, is one of Nigeria’s most experienced forwards, having represented the Super Eagles at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
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