15 February 2002
THE confusion and shame that were Nigeria's participation at the Nations Cup manifested itself as the Eagles left Bamako in batches yesterday.
The EAS Airline that was sent to bring back the failures did not arrive till 12pm and when they were to leave, there was scramble for seats.
When the pilot complained that the plane could not carry all their excess luggage, the Minister's aides had to drop people who had been with the team to ensure that the Minister's big entourage were accommodated.
Most pathetic was the case of two young ball boys of the Eagles who were asked to step aside from the airline.
Coach Amodu was so moved that he wondered how the boys could cope in Bamako alone. The boys were full of tears. Barrister Richard Obienu Nwabofor was touched but could not do anything as the Minister's aides had their way.
Journalists were equally handpicked by the Minister's aides. They expectedly picked Government media. When Vanguard duo, Tony Ubani and Demola Olajire were cited, they thought that we were to travel with them.
They wanted to get their pound of flesh, but were disappointed.
Vanguard had bought a return ticket for their staff who covered the Nations Cup effectively." How can a team that caused many Nigerians heartache buy up Bamako?", a disappointed Nigerian fan who came to see them off asked.
The large contingent from the Ministry competed for excess luggage.(ACONS)
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