Former Nigeria coach Samson Siasia has appealed to both world football governing body FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) over a life ban for bribery, while denying any wrongdoing.
Last month, FIFA banned Siasia, 52, from all football-related activities after an extensive investigation into matches that Wilson Raj Perumal attempted to manipulate for betting purposes showed he breached Article 11 (Bribery) of the 2009 edition of the FIFA code of ethics.
He told reporters at a press briefing held at the Media Center of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium that his lawyers filed the appeal to FIFA on August 27, 2019, while the other appeal was sent to the Court of Arbitration for Sports on August 29, 2019.
Siasia denied that he breached any ethics of football.
“I wish to state that I have never been and would never be a party to any form of unethical conduct or perversion in the discharge of my duties in any capacity,” he said.
“I built my career in the football industry on the foundation of hard work, integrity, consistency and God.
“In all my career, I have done nothing, but serve my country clubs to the best of my personal and professional ability, with all my strength and might, with discipline, pride and passion and an awareness that it is a privilege to be an ambassador of our great nation.
“It is my greatest hope and belief that my country also stands by and with me at a time like this.”
He added: “The entire proceedings and decision was only brought to my notice on August 16, 2019, when the news broke in the public domain and friends and family started to call.
“I was totally unaware of the proceedings until I heard about FIFA’s decision.
“While I may not be able to publicly divulge the details and specifics, I think it fit to inform you that I have appealed against FIFA’s decision and you all will probably hear the results like you heard about the ban.
“I am currently taking legal advice. My lawyer Mr Austin Otah has been liaising with the NFF and their counsel.”
The former Nigeria coach admitted it has been a most difficult time for him.
“I must state that this is the most trying period of my life,” he said.
“I am still dealing with the pain and challenges of my mother being kidnapped again and fighting to secure her release.
“I urge the nation to support me with prayers, goodwill and support of all kinds. The demands are very heavy.”
His lawyer, Austin Otah, confirmed submissions of the appeals to both FIFA and CAS.
“We have actually assisted Mr Samson Siasia to file his appeal and we are awaiting FIFA to acknowledge the receipt of the appeal. We are awaiting feedback from FIFA and CAS,” he said.
“The decision of FIFA requires Mr Siasia to appeal to the CAS. We are exploring an internal appeal mechanism, exceptionally with the Appeal Committee of FIFA.
“But that notwithstanding we are still to ensure that his appeal rights are not impeded in anyway.”
