Emmanuel Emenike Blasts Governors, Says Nigeria Has Become an “Embezzlement Ground”

Former Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike has criticised some Nigerian state governors over alleged mismanagement of public funds, describing the country as an “embezzlement ground”.

Emenike expressed his frustration in a post on his Instagram page on Wednesday, accusing some governors of lacking clear plans for the future of their states and prioritising the alleged diversion of public funds.

The former international also criticised security personnel for allegedly supporting political office holders despite the economic difficulties facing some members of the security agencies.

“The arrogance and confidence in some of these governors make me sick, and a lot of them don’t have good plans for the future of their state, zero plans; e.g., just embezzle money, and una police and army go still follow them with empty stomachs, jokers,” Emenike wrote.

He added, “Nigeria is finished and gone. We thought it was a country when we played, not knowing that it is an embezzlement ground. Embezzlement group of companies.”

Emenike did not mention any governor by name in the post, nor did he identify specific cases of alleged financial misconduct. His comments nevertheless reflected his dissatisfaction with what he described as poor governance and the handling of public resources.

The former striker represented Nigeria between 2011 and 2015, making his international debut in February 2011 before retiring from the national team in October 2015. He scored nine goals in 37 appearances for the Super Eagles.

Emenike was a key member of Nigeria’s squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, securing the country’s third continental title. Nigeria defeated Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final, with Sunday Mba scoring the decisive goal.

The striker finished the tournament as joint top scorer with four goals and was named in the Team of the Tournament, further cementing his place in the Super Eagles’ successful 2013 campaign.