Samuel Eto’o’s abrupt resignation as president of the Cameroon Football Federation met unanimous resistance from the Executive Committee during a meeting at Yaounde’s Hilton Hotel.
Despite Eto’o citing personal reasons for his departure, the committee, convened for the first time post the Indomitable Lions’ elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, firmly rejected his resignation, emphasizing the importance of continuity and stability.
The 2-0 loss to Nigerian rivals in the Round of 16 at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan last week fueled the committee’s commitment to maintaining leadership.
Eto’o, a revered figure in Cameroonian and global football, injected a unique perspective into the presidency, raising concerns about the potential disruption of ongoing developmental initiatives in his absence.
Notably, Eto’o’s recent involvement in alleged match-fixing controversies adds a layer of complexity to his departure.
Accused of influencing matches in Cameroon’s second tier, a recording surfaced implicating him in discussions with Valentine Nkwain, the president of Victoria United.
The legendary striker at the helm since December 2021 now grapples with both personal and professional challenges, leaving the Cameroon Football Federation at a critical juncture.
