A lot has been said, and more reactions are pouring in regarding the viral video featuring one of Nigeria’s esteemed footballers, who has brought pride to Africa, Nigeria, his family, and himself.
The comments flooding in reflect the deep admiration millions of Nigerians hold for Victor Osimhen, celebrating his fame and success since his breakthrough in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile. Undoubtedly, few other footballers or celebrities could attract such widespread attention with their videos.
This clearly indicates the immense affection Nigerians have for Osimhen. As the face of the Super Eagles, he consistently performs whenever he wears the national jersey.
To delve deeper into the events preceding Osimhen’s recent Instagram live, let’s briefly revisit his journey—from his struggles to success, starting from the slums of Olusosun, a suburb in the Ojota Area of Lagos. He sold pure water, bread, and other goods on Lagos streets to make ends meet. His dedication, including fetching water for his family’s landlady, endeared him to millions worldwide.
However, the events of the past 24 hours have altered the deep-seated affection Nigerians held for Osimhen.
Recall the nation’s prayers for him when he suffered a serious injury that required him to wear a protective face mask.
Many are now questioning what triggered Osimhen’s outburst. As he himself admitted, losing respect for Finidi, he has also lost a significant portion of Nigerians’ admiration.
VICTOR OSIMHEN GOES UNCOUTH ON INSTAGRAM LIVE
The video of Osimhen losing control, disregarding caution, and using uncouth language was applauded by some but has left a sour taste in Nigeria’s football community. There is still much to achieve both with his club and the national team, but…
No one denies Victor’s right to react when he feels wronged or disrespected. However, there are more appropriate ways to convey a message or express anger without resorting to street-like or gangster-like language.
Millions of Nigerians envisioned Osimhen as the next captain of the Super Eagles. Many saw him as a future leader given his dedication and passion on the field. However, we must not overlook his regrettable actions.
While calls for his apology abound, it must be said that apologies should not serve as mere cover-ups for lasting emotional wounds.
THE SACRIFICE OF SUPER EAGLES LEGENDS
Nigeria has seen great players, Africa’s Players of the Year, millionaire footballers, and dedicated patriots who served with humility. Yet none have behaved or spoken as Osimhen did.
Some players sacrificed their lives for Nigeria, dying in active service.
Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji is a poignant example. Some endured severe injuries just to play in crucial games for Nigeria, like Stephen Keshi. Benjamin Okorogwu was a stellar central defender in his time, passing away while with the Green Eagles during AFCON qualifiers.
The world witnessed Taribo West bandaged during the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan. Countless players have endured fractures and other injuries for the Super Eagles, even spilling blood on the field.
No player should act as if Nigerians haven’t witnessed better before. Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s greatest and most prolific forward, remains unmatched with 37 goals, including Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Victor Osimhen should face sanctions to deter others.
In the Super Eagles team, no player is indispensable. No single player can cover all positions on the pitch. Osimhen or any other player should claim sole credit for a collective team’s success.
Ultimately, if Osimhen deems it appropriate to offer an unreserved apology to Finidi and the Nigerian football fraternity, forgiveness should be extended to him, welcoming him back like a prodigal son. However, sanctions must precede any reconciliation.
The videos of Osimhen are indicative of Nigeria becoming a ground where even those with outside influence show little respect. Is it due to the lack of consequences or moral decay? That remains for you to decide.
Enough of this unacceptable behavior.
