The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been verbally attacked by Nigerian football fans on social media after releasing a condolence message on the demise of former Nigeria youth international, Emmanuel Ebiede.
Ebiede died aged 47 at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.
His daughter, Lisa, confirmed the development on Friday, April 14 in Ilorin.
It was gathered that Ebiede had been battling hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver).
On April 4, pictures of the protruding stomach of the ex-international went viral on social media, raising concerns over his health.
The Rivers State Government had promised to take care of his medical bills.
However, he died barely two weeks later.
In a condolence message shared on Twitter on Saturday, the NFF said, “The Nigeria Football Federation mourns the passing of former national team player, Emmanuel Ebiede, who died in Port Harcourt on Friday, 14th April at the age of 47 after battling with hepatomegaly. May his soul Rest in Peace.”
The Nigeria Football Federation mourns the passing of former national team player, Emmanuel Ebiede, who died in Port Harcourt on Friday, 14th April at the age of 47 after battling with hepatomegaly. May his soul Rest in Peace pic.twitter.com/MeMOeavPLX
— The NFF 🇳🇬 (@thenff) April 15, 2023
However, the message elicited critical reactions from fans, who queried the football body’s efforts in getting the ex-international medical care.
Didn't see you guys when his family and friends were calling for assistance. Just to come here and post this now. SHAME!
— AMT 🇳🇬 (@AMTanimu) April 15, 2023
You are quick to announce his obituary but I can bet anything, you guys did nothing to help his situation while on his dying bed. Shameless people!
— The Intercessor🔥 (@ucee_oti) April 16, 2023
The NFF should create a Special Trust Fund for ex footballers. I hate how they abandon most of the ex players.
— Jerry koko Durojaiye (@kokomatic) April 15, 2023
But have read about his illness since week , you guys don’t border to help him or let ppl that can help to know but boom now his no more condolences flying up and down this very bad
— Larry  (@Abdool111) April 15, 2023
Why is it that all those players that have played for Nigeria, when they have health problems or financial issues, why does NFF normally ignore them? Why corruption has been order of the day in the glass house? Why has Nigeria has not been able to employ a world-class coach?
— Larwill (@olanrray) April 15, 2023