Osimhen Saga: A Cancer That Must Be Cut Off

For those who applauded Victor Osimhen’s conduct last night and branded it “passion,” an honest question must be asked: when does passion stop being commitment and start becoming entitlement?

What played out on the pitch was not leadership, hunger, or drive. It was an inflated sense of self-importance. True passion communicates, corrects, and rallies the team. It does not isolate, humiliate teammates, or openly challenge authority. Signalling for a substitution because Ademola Lookman failed to pass—especially in the heat of play—crosses that line. That is not passion; it is arrogance.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow The Lagos Voice on WhatsApp channel for latest updates

It is deeply disappointing that despite Osimhen’s exposure to top-level football and elite dressing rooms, he still struggles with basic interpersonal conduct. Football rewards talent, yes—but it also demands character. Skill can win matches; character sustains teams.

Osimhen : hey hey, It’s a team game, listen to me bro

Lookman: Bro you scored two, you got two

Wahala🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/wA9q1wPsTF

— EL Gran’ Osvaldo🥷 (@Vizzy_rayven) January 5, 2026

If this were a corporate environment, such behaviour would not be romanticised. No employee, regardless of performance, would publicly undermine a colleague without consequences. A query, disciplinary hearing, or suspension would follow. Yet in football, we repeatedly excuse unacceptable conduct simply because the offender is a superstar. In doing so, we enable the very behaviour that ultimately destabilises teams.

This culture of indulgence is dangerous. Superstars are not above accountability. In fact, they should be held to a higher standard because they are watched, copied, and celebrated. Holding them accountable is not punishment—it is responsibility. That is the true way to give back to the society and system that elevated them.

Osimhen owes the team an apology and must submit himself to whatever disciplinary measures are deemed necessary. No player is bigger than the badge, and no individual is more important than collective harmony. Footballing success is rarely built on indulgence; it thrives where respect, equality, and discipline are non-negotiable.

What happened was not just a personal lapse—it was a direct disregard for teammates who continue to make silent sacrifices for the collective goal. By his actions, Osimhen diminished their effort and undermined the unity required to succeed at the highest level.

This is not an isolated incident. When Osimhen publicly disrespected Finidi George, many applauded his “boldness” instead of addressing the warning signs. That was the moment the cancer should have been cut out—before it spread. Silence and applause only embolden repetition.

The preferential treatment Osimhen enjoys—from fans, media, and even teammates—has clearly contributed to this sense of invincibility. But football history teaches one harsh truth: no one is indispensable. Change is the only constant, and teams always move on.

It must also be stated clearly: Osimhen is not the sole carrier of responsibility in this team. His primary role—scoring goals—is shared by others, including Ademola Lookman. Football is a system, not a solo act.

Chelle must act decisively. Discipline must be enforced, not delayed. Accountability must be restored, not negotiated. This is not about hatred or witch-hunting. It is about protecting the integrity of the team.

Osimhen is loved, admired, and respected for his talent. But love without correction is indulgence—and indulgence breeds decay. This action must be addressed firmly, or the consequences will only grow worse.

Written by Jeremiah Omoniyi