Nigerian Footballer Kidnapped, 150,000 euros Ransom for Christian Obodo

Family of Italian team Christian Obodo confirmed he was kidnapped today in Warri, southern Nigeria by unknown gunmen on his way to visit a friend.

Obodo was for several years a Nigeria international. Last season, he played on loan at Lecce from Serie A side Udinese. Lecce were relegated to Serie AB on May 13 after finishing third from bottom of Italy's top flight.

Obodo's brother, Kenneth Obodo, who is also a footballer in Italy and is currently in Nigeria, was quoted by Italian news agency ANSA as saying: "Christian is fine. We are in touch with the kidnappers, who want some money.

"We can't give them more than 100,000 euros ($125,000). Unfortunately these things happen in our country."

His brother-in-law, Obidike Okechukwu, was quoted by ANSA as saying that the kidnappers had asked for a ransom of 150,000 euros.

On behalf of the Miss West Africa team, we hope these cockroaches don't taint the name of the ever growing, business and tourist orientated country of Nigeria that has developed in all aspects of economic growth. Justice will be served may they receive their money or not. We wish the best for Christian Obodo.



Source: AFP

Asamoah Gyan Quits Football, Indefinitely! Due to Verbal Abuse.

Ghana's Football Association (GFA) is holding talks with striker Asamoah Gyan, after he said he has has quit international football "indefinitely".

The GFA says Gyan acted because he was "frustrated over the verbal abuse he has received" since the Africa Cup of Nations.

"The GFA is [urging] him to reconsider his decision," a statement said.

Gyan's move follows Ghana's Nations Cup semi-final defeat by Zambia, in which he had a penalty saved.

To be honest, we support his decision if he goes through with it, the verbal abuse and silly images flying at him from Ghanaians was really out of place, joke or not joke.

If he persues this decision, I hope it will be a lesson for those that put out those horrific pictures and images, and also a message to those that support their countries talent to oppose such acts. Go Asamoah, Rule your own destiny! You are already a sports legend, we support whichever decision you make.




Source - BBC, GFA