The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Tuesday submitted documents to a Federal High Court in Abuja to explain the absence of its top officials, who are facing allegations of misappropriating $8.4 million and N4 billion. The case, which was brought by the Special Presidential Investigation Panel, has been adjourned to September 26.

On Monday, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu issued a warrant for the arrest of four NFF officials after they failed to appear in court. However, the NFF lawyer, Mr. Olawole Olaniji, argued that the officials were absent due to their official duties at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt. Justice Ojukwu indicated that the warrant would be lifted if proof of their official duties was provided.

The affected officials include NFF Secretary Sunusi Mohammed, 1st Vice-President Seyi Akinwumi, 2nd Vice-President Shehu Dikko, and Executive member Yusuff Fresh. Contrary to earlier reports, NFF President Amaju Pinnick was not included in the warrant due to his role in the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) organizing committee.

In a statement, NFF spokesperson Ademola Olajide confirmed that the required documents were submitted, including entry visas to Egypt and Europe for those who traveled directly from the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France to Egypt. The documents were addressed to the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court.

The submission aimed to comply with the court’s directive that the arrest warrants would be nullified upon proof of participation in AFCON. The NFF statement added that official accreditation documents and travel records were provided as evidence of the officials’ involvement in the continental tournament.

The case will resume on September 26.