Rivers United centre forward Seiyefa Jackson has been declared Absent Without Leave (AWOL) after failing to report to the club despite being registered for the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
Jackson, a product of the club’s Feeders team, initially claimed to be unwell. However, subsequent examinations by the club’s medical staff found no evidence of illness. Despite multiple attempts by the club to verify his claim, the player has gone into hiding and has since stopped responding to communications from Rivers United.
Further investigations revealed that Jackson has joined Ojodu City FC, an amateur/academy team, without obtaining the necessary clearance or permission from Rivers United. His move constitutes a violation of his contractual obligations to the club, prompting an official response from the club’s management.
READ MORE: Akwa United still in trouble despite crucial win over Shooting Stars
In a statement issued by Rivers United Media Director Charles Mayuku, the club confirmed that the case has been formally reported to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for urgent intervention.
Rivers United have declared that striker Seiyefa Jackson has gone AWOL after failing to report to the club despite being registered for the 2024/2025 NPFL season.
He has reportedly joined Ojodu City FC, an amateur club pic.twitter.com/Wfvk9xoHil
— The Athletic NG (@TheAthleticNG) March 17, 2025
“Rivers United FC is concerned about the growing trend of players disregarding their contractual obligations and abandoning their clubs without permission,” the statement read. “We appreciate the prompt attention of the relevant authorities to this matter and look forward to a swift resolution.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Seiyefa Jackson made his senior debut for Rivers United on May 26, 2024, in an NPFL matchday 33 fixture against Sporting Lagos FC at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. The young forward showcased his potential by scoring his debut goal in the 86th minute, sealing a 4-1 victory for his team.
Jackson has often spoken about his ambition to emulate his idol, Victor Osimhen, and dreams of playing for a top European club while representing Nigeria at the senior international level. However, his recent actions have now cast uncertainty over his professional future.
The situation continues to unfold, with Rivers United awaiting further directives from the NFF and NPFL regarding the next course of action.
