The Nigerian football scene is fast becoming another theatre industry that could rival Nollywood. Since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, so many dramatic scenes have been recorded such that if put together, an award-winning movie could be packaged. A coach that was asked to step down due to poor performance, bad selection and ‘other happenings’ in the camp was again asked to return just exactly two weeks after. Stephen Keshi did well to raise a team that won the 2013 Nations Cup but he destroyed the team with sentiments, arrogance and greed.

In four games, Keshi won only one, drew one and lost two. Four points out of possible 12 place the Eagles on a tight rope and the Nigeria Football Federation took the right decision by asking the coach to take a walk on October 16. Only last Thursday (October 30), reports came in from Abuja that Keshi was back. It was learnt that his return was a directive from President Goodluck Jonathan.

Another version has it that embattled club owner, Chris Giwa, insisted that Keshi should return as part of his conditions for the out of court settlement. Shaibu Amodu, who was named as interim coach after Keshi was asked to leave was not even considered in the unfolding drama. He was already working towards rebuilding the team and bringing the players together but rather, a script came out that it was Amodu who sent an appeal to the NFF asking for Keshi’s return.

The best Nollywood producer will even envy the NFF at this point. It is so sad that the President will involve himself in technical matters he knows nothing about. Those who are also standing up for Keshi in the corridors of power should find out what has been happening in the Eagles camp in the past one year or more. Agents from various places determine the players to be called to camp. One of Keshi’s assistants is said to be selling wristwatches worth 5,000 pounds to the players and it is a must buy item.

There are other allegations of corruption that are unprintable. In camp, some of the players are not on talking terms. Some of them are so big such that they determine those to be fielded. There is disaffection in the team and the players are no longer playing for Keshi. Bringing him back due to presidential fiat or to settle political score is a big setback for the team and the country. Let us ask ourselves why players like Azubuike Egwuekwe will always make the call up list but not trusted enough to feature in games. The return of Keshi is a bad omen.

Now Nigeria is almost certain to miss Morocco 2015. It also means Keshi is bigger than the NFF and Nigerians, who rightfully so in my view, called for his sacking. Funny enough, Keshi himself jumped at the opportunity to return. In his shoes, I would have rejected such offer.

Somehow, Amodu will also be thankful to God that the ‘dirty job’ is back to the person who started it all. The NFF owes Amodu an apology. However, I am sure the last has not been heard about the drama in the house of football. We are anxious to see more scenes unfold.