A former Nigerian international footballer has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of involvement in a cocaine importation scheme.
Court documents showed that the ex-player played a role in bringing illegal drugs into the country. He was convicted alongside other members of the trafficking network following investigations by anti-narcotics authorities.
In the same case, the alleged mastermind behind the operation was handed a 22-year jail term. The court described him as the key figure coordinating the movement and distribution of the cocaine.Prosecutors told the court that the syndicate used complex routes to smuggle the drugs.
Authorities said the bust was part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on drug trafficking rings operating in and out of Nigeria.The judge noted that the sentences were meant to serve as a strong deterrent. Officials reiterated their commitment to prosecuting anyone involved in drug crimes, regardless of status or past achievements in sports.
