Former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye, has dismissed reports claiming he called for retired footballers who fall into financial hardship to be jailed.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner came under criticism last week after comments he made during an online debate were misinterpreted by several outlets, sparking outrage among fans and stakeholders.
In a statement released on Sunday titled Setting the Record Straight, Ideye insisted the reports were false and damaging to his reputation.
“Let me be clear: These statements are completely false and misrepresent my views,” the former West Bromwich Albion forward said.
“I would never suggest punitive action towards anyone who struggles financially or otherwise. Instead, I advocate for support systems, mentorship programmes, and resources to help athletes transition successfully after retirement.”
He emphasized that conversations about player welfare should be handled with compassion rather than condemnation, adding that the misrepresentation painted him unfairly.
“This article is misleading of my person and character. I urge the public to disregard it and call on the media to desist from such false claims,” Ideye noted.
On social media, he further cautioned against hasty conclusions. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, he posted: “School is not a scam, try to learn how to read and understand the whole story before jumping into conclusions.”
The controversy originated after Ideye advised active players to cultivate financial discipline by saving early in their careers.
His comments came in response to ex-defender Taribo West’s emotional outburst at the burial of former goalkeeper Peter Rufai, where West accused football authorities of neglecting Nigerian legends.
Ideye, 34, retired from international football earlier this year after playing his last professional football with Enyimba in the 2024/2025 NPFL season.
He represented Nigeria at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and was part of the squad that lifted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.
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