Former Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike has criticised some Nigerian state governors over alleged corruption and misuse of public funds, describing Nigeria as an “embezzlement ground”.
The former international expressed his frustration in a post on Instagram on Wednesday, October 14, accusing some governors of lacking clear plans for the development of their states while prioritising personal enrichment.
Emenike also questioned the role of security personnel assigned to political officeholders, arguing that police officers and military personnel continue to protect politicians despite the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians.
“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; they just embezzle money,” he wrote.
He added that Nigeria was “finished and gone”, saying he had believed he was representing a country to be proud of during his playing career.
Emenike did not identify any governor by name or provide specific evidence to support his allegations.
Emenike’s Super Eagles career
Emenike represented Nigeria’s senior national team between 2011 and 2015, making 37 appearances and scoring nine goals.
He was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, securing Nigeria’s third continental title and its first since 1994.
The striker scored four goals during the tournament, finishing as joint top scorer and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament. Nigeria defeated Burkina Faso 1–0 in the final to claim the trophy.
Emenike announced his retirement from international football in October 2015.
His latest comments have renewed attention on public accountability, the management of state resources and the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
