“Rape is worse, but false Rape accusations is worst”
Football as a universal game has over years been a fulcrum of peace keeping, unity and togetherness at the international arena. One of the controversial issue In football today is sex scandal or rape. No doubt, rape is a social vice that should not be encouraged despite the penalty laid on it by law. This inhumane act is not only against the ethic of human society, but, it is also punishable under law and constitution of any country. In fact it is a societal malady that has defile cure value over the years. However, rape case is a critical issue to delve in, not only because it’s a social vice with implications, but the increased false sexual allegations baptizing footballers and its effects on their careers seeks urgent attention.
Some perceived reasons for the increase in false sexual accusations of playersis Gender sentimentalism. The imbalance in the agenda of gender imbalance makes players accused of sexscandal face penalty unjustly. Critical investigation are done by officials before they’re suspended from activities or jailed.This singular act has become a debacle in today’s football.
By Gender sentimentalism, we mean to prove the imbalanced in the treatment of both genders (male and female), particularly, the male gender.
Generally, gender and emotions are interconnected, and societal expectations can influence how individuals express and experience their feelings based on their gender identity. Society today tends to have “soft spot” for the female and minors, a reality that has been abused In football.
For instance, in Nigeria society it is ludicrous for male to raise alarm over rape case, because it sound skeptical. Where as, reversed is the case with the female. In football statement like, “what a waste of talent”, “how can he do this her”, “he should be banned from football”, ”the club should terminate his contract asap“ invokes the mind of fans to player linked with sexual accusations. This practice has become, “common as cold” in the world of football.
False rape accusations in modern football, like in other sphere of life is a serious issue and it is essential to note that, false accusations are relatively rare compared to real sexual assault or harassment. Yet, when they occur, they have magnitude or consequences on the accused, the club as well as the broader football community. This causes significant damage to player’s reputation, career, and personal life. Accused players may face public disgrace, loss of sponsorship deals, suspension or termination from their clubs, and even legal proceedings.
Over the years football players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Neymar, Frank Ribery, Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, David DeGea, Dani Alves etc have been linked with sexual scandals. The culture of sexual allegations is gradually become a cliché in football today. The detriment of this trend in football is evident; as seen with Manchester united forward, Mason Greenwood who was arrested after the release of images and video online from a female acquaintance. Ever since his arrest he has lost his sponsorship deals, freedom and his momentum, fascinating breakout as promising football youngster.
In retrospect to sexual allegations claims, Nike issued a statement “We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation.”
However, earlier this year, charges of his attempted rape, assault and coercive behavior was dropped, Greater Manchester Police said it was “only fair” to announce Greenwood would no longer face criminal proceedings. Ch Supt Michaela Kerr said, “the decision had not been taken lightly”. She added: “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate the force’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.” This is an imbalance in the global agenda of gender imbalance.
Considering an African proverb, “when a child plays with a knife and it cuts his hand, he quickly drops it but the knife has already done what it intends to do.” Relative to sponsorship deal lost, and skepticism of Manchester United on his innocence (Greenwood), all finger is crossed to see if he can revive his career as he is currently set for a loan move.
In like vein, former Manchester City defender, Benjamin Mendy, is the latest footballer to be cleared of rape and attempted rape by a jury at Chester Crown Court. Mendy was accused of carrying out sexual acts on two different ladies at his mansion in England. The Frenchman missed Man City’s historic treble last season due to the trials. After he was discharged and acquitted because he was innocent of the charges, Mendy released a statement through his lawyer, thanking the jury for their focus on evidence in the trial rather than rumour and argument. The statement affirms how badly hurt he feels.
We find out that the rationale behind players sexual accusations is their luxurious lifestyles, wealth and fame. This can also be seen in Nigeria society where lots of celebrity are baptized with false sexual accusations. Celebrities like Brymo, D’Banj, Perruzzi, Biodun Fatoyinbo among others have been falsely accused of rape. These allegations does not mean rape and other forms of sexual harassment do not happen in our society. Neither do we say rape is justify in our society, but we see false allegation as something devilish and should be discouraged. It is therefore pertinent to note that, player’s life style attract attention of people. George Orwell posit in his book ‘animal farm’ said, “all animals are equal but some are animals are more equal than others.” The perceived inequality and greedy nature of some ladies could be reasons for falsely accusing males.
Speaking with DAILY POST, Alpha Markus Sidi, Wakanda FC midfielder, said: “Being a celebrity is always not an easy thing. People try to get footballers into trouble because they know society will always believe them because most footballers are known for having extravagant spending and clubbing lifestyle. These people do this to get money. There are so many footballers involved in this, to me, the way out is prevention. I think prevention is better than cure. Footballers should try to drink responsibly even while clubbing. They should not mingle or attach themselves too much to women. Footballers should try to sleep at their various homes rather than sleeping at hotels after clubbing”.
“Footballers should not stay up late. Not every invitation like night-outs and birthdays should be honoured by footballers. Most importantly, footballers should marry the right person because it reduces the risk of getting involved in scandal.”
In reappraisal to this statement, one question that strikes the mind is that, are footballer not human beings? Should they not exercise their social right in fear of been linked with scandals?
Also, Idris Musa Adinoyi, the captain of Dawaki Rangers FC, Abuja, said: “No sane man or professional will wish to be caught in a scandal of any form. Players involved in scandals could lose their respect as an individual and as a footballer. They lose sponsorship deals, contracts, fans’ respect and the general public say all manner of negative things that will literally tarnish their image. It will be a horrible experience, I must say.”
England star with Ghana heritage, Callum HudsonOdoi, speaking after his release from the police custody, on the ground of sexual allegations said ”I have fully stayed silent and assisted the police fully, throughout their investigations, as I knew a day would come when my name would be cleared.”
Moroccan international, Achraf Hakimi have also gotten the taste of sexual accusations in recent times. What shall we say, then? Should we just stay aloof and allow this evil persist? Certainly not.
To address this issue, several measures can be taken; first, thorough investigations should be conducted before a player is arrested and detained for sexual allegations. Also, Football clubs and organizations can implement training programs that raise awareness about sexual misconduct, consent, and the consequences of false accusations. Education can help create a safer and more respectful environment within the football community.
Above all, the media should play a significant role in shaping public perceptions. Journalists should be diligent in verifying information and not sensationalize unproven allegations.
It is essential to balance the need to address genuine cases of sexual misconduct with protecting individuals from false accusations. An equitable and just approach to handling such cases can help foster trust within the football community and ensure that all individuals are fairly treated.
– Samson Kinsley Ojodemi
Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba Kogi State
