A suspect arrested over the theft of more than $1,000 from Super Falcons players at a Casablanca hotel has reportedly confessed to the crime.
The stolen money is expected to be returned to the affected players, while criminal proceedings will be instituted against the suspect.
The breakthrough came after midfielder Esther Okoronkwo disclosed that cash belonging to her and three teammates disappeared from their rooms at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were also identified as victims of the hotel theft.
The incident occurred on the final day of Nigeria’s training camp in Casablanca, shortly before the team relocated to Rabat for their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations group matches.
Players’ complaints trigger investigation
Okoronkwo accused the hotel’s staff of failing to respond appropriately when the players reported the missing money.
“We started talking to them and they don’t have answers. They also started being disrespectful,” she said while warning people against patronising the hotel.
The players’ public complaints sparked widespread reactions before Nigerian journalist and former Super Eagles media officer Colin Udoh announced the arrest and confession.
“I have been informed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the theft at the Super Falcons’ Marriott Hotel in Casablanca and has confessed,” Udoh said.
“Full restitution will be made to the players while the law takes its course.”
The development offers some relief to the players after an incident that threatened to distract them from their preparations for the continental tournament.
The Super Falcons have since moved to Rabat and returned their attention to football, holding two training sessions at the AS FAR training ground on Sunday.
Justine Madugu’s side will begin their Group C campaign against Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium on Tuesday.
Nigeria will also face Zambia and Egypt as the 10-time African champions pursue a record-extending 11th continental title.
