A suspect has been arrested after allegedly confessing to stealing cash from several Nigeria Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) squad members at their hotel in Morocco.
The incident took place on the final day of the team’s stay at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, prior to their relocation to Rabat for Group C fixtures. Following public outcry from the players, former Super Eagles media officer and journalist Colin Udoh confirmed that a suspect was in custody.
“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. Full restitution will be made to the players while the law takes its course,” Udoh stated.
The breach came to light when midfielder Esther Okoronkwo took to social media to reveal that over $1,000 had been taken from room safes and belongings. Affected players included goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie, and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. Okoronkwo expressed frustration over the establishment’s initial response to the complaints.
“We started talking to them and they don’t have answers. They also started being disrespectful,” Okoronkwo said.
The Nigerian squad began their WAFCON 2026 preparations on 15 July in the coastal city of Mohammedia before moving through Casablanca and settling in Rabat on Saturday.
Despite the off-pitch disruption, head coach Justine Madugu’s side completed two training sessions at the AS FAR training ground on Sunday to refocus on their campaign. The record 10-time African champions open their tournament on Tuesday against Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium, before completing their Group C fixtures against Zambia and Egypt.