Nigerian football has been rocked by controversy following confirmation that Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been charged over an alleged case of sexual conduct without consent in Norway.
The 18-year-old, who plays his club football with Molde, is facing formal charges after an incident that was reported to Norwegian authorities in April. The development has cast a shadow over what had been a promising rise for the midfielder, regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents abroad.
In a statement, Molde confirmed that the case had progressed to the charging stage and outlined the steps taken by the club since the matter first came to light. The Norwegian side stressed that both the club and the player have cooperated fully with police throughout the investigation.
“Daniel has been informed of the charges and has been removed from training and matches for the time being,” Molde said. “After the end of the season, Daniel traveled home in connection with the team’s planned vacation. Daniel and the club have agreed that he will return to Norway ahead of the legal proceedings.”
The decision to suspend Daga from all football-related activities reflects the seriousness with which Molde are treating the case, even as the legal process continues. The club has not provided details of the alleged incident, citing respect for the ongoing judicial proceedings and the individuals involved.
Molde chairman Odd Ivar Moen acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the strain such cases place on everyone connected to the club. “We have previously experienced how demanding this type of case is for those involved, for the club and for everyone around us,” Moen said. “This is a serious matter, and we take the charges that have been brought very seriously.”
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Daga’s legal team, however, has firmly denied any wrongdoing. His lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, confirmed that the Nigerian youth international does not admit guilt and maintains that the encounter in question was consensual.
“My client acknowledges that there was a sexual incident, but maintains that it was consensual,” Bolstad said. “He believes that he has done nothing illegal and does not admit guilt. We are surprised that charges have been brought after the investigation that has been carried out.”
The case has sparked debate among football fans in Nigeria and Norway alike, particularly around the handling of allegations involving young athletes playing abroad. While supporters have urged caution and respect for due process, others have highlighted the importance of taking allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and allowing the legal system to run its course.
Daga, a central midfielder, has been part of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles setup and was viewed as a key figure for the future of the national youth teams. His performances in Scandinavia had drawn positive reviews, with Molde seen as an important stepping stone in his European development.
For now, that footballing journey is on hold. Molde’s confirmation that Daga will return to Norway ahead of legal proceedings suggests the case is expected to move forward in the coming months. Until then, his immediate future remains uncertain, both on and off the pitch.
The situation also places renewed focus on the responsibilities of clubs when dealing with serious off-field allegations involving their players. Molde’s approach — suspending the player while cooperating with authorities — aligns with broader European standards, but the outcome of the case will ultimately determine the next steps.
As the legal process unfolds, all parties involved face an intense period of scrutiny. For Daga, the priority will be clearing his name, while for Molde and Nigerian football authorities, the challenge lies in balancing support for the player with accountability and respect for the justice system.
The case serves as a sobering reminder that talent and potential do not place anyone above the law, and that allegations of this nature demand careful handling, patience and fairness until the courts reach a conclusion.
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