Samuel Eto’o, the former world-renowned striker, is currently under fire as president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fécafoot). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior by the former footballer. This case follows accusations of match manipulation and interference in the promotions and relegations of Cameroonian clubs.
CAF said it has received written requests from various Cameroonian football stakeholders regarding the alleged inappropriate behaviors of Samuel Eto’o. Club presidents have publicly accused the president of FECAFOOT of having intervened to favor certain teams in their promotion to the higher division. A telephone conversation between Samuel Eto’o and the president of a club was also reportedly revealed, suggesting maneuvers to influence the decisions of the referees committee.
These allegations have sparked strong reactions among Cameroonian football players. The Association of Amateur Football Clubs of Cameroon has demanded the resignation of Samuel Eto’o, saying he had manipulated matches to serve his own interests. Moreover, the case of the Bamboutos Football Club of Mbouda, which was denied the issuance of CAF licenses due to salary arrears, has also raised concerns about the management of FECAFOOT.
Samuel Eto’o’s lawyer reacted strongly to the CAF investigation, describing the body’s communication as pernicious and toxic. He claims that his client was never informed of the charges against him and reserves the right to initiate legal proceedings in due course. According to him, these attacks are orchestrated by the enemies of Cameroonian football who seek to hold the sport hostage to serve their personal interests.
This case highlights the difficulties faced by the presidency of FECAFOOT since the election of Samuel Eto’o last December. Despite his ambitions to revive Cameroonian football and attract sponsors, disagreements with the sports minister and internal tensions have undermined his tenure. Even if the qualification for the World Cup was a success, the fractures within the federation remain visible.
It is important that this investigation be conducted in a fair and transparent manner in order to resolve the allegations against Samuel Eto’o. The credibility of Fécafoot is at stake, but also the image of Cameroonian football as a whole. Supporters and sports stakeholders expect clear answers and adequate measures to guarantee the integrity of the game and the good governance of the federation