FIFA Presidency: Orji Kalu Backs Out, Odegbami Fails Requirements

Two Nigerian FIFA presidency candidates Orji Uzor Kalu and Segun Odegbami have failed in their bid to succeed Sepp Blatter. While Orji Kalu backed out before the 12pm Monday, October 26 deadline, Odegbami could not get the required backing of five nations for his bid to become the next FIFA president.
                               

Orji Kalu, a former governor of Abia state said in a statement issued by his adviser, Kunle Oyewumi: “I feel humbled and honoured with the widespread call for me to vie for the position of FIFA president.

“I sincerely appreciate the show of love and support demonstrated by African countries of endorsements despite my decision not to submit a bid.

“I particularly remain grateful to FIFA President, Sepp Blatter and his team for personally acknowledging my capability to take the world football body to enviable heights.

“As a football enthusiast, I remain committed and passionate to the advancement of sports especially Africa.”

Ex-Nigeria winger Segun Odegbami meanwhile failed to get the required five nations backing after the support from the Nigeria Football Federation came too late.

The eight men recognised to run for the next FIFA presidency elections are; Prince Ali bin al Hussein, Michel Platini, Jerome Champagne, David Nakhid, Tokyo Sexwale, Shaikh Salman bin Brahim al Khalifa, Gianni Infantino and Musa Bility