Super Eagles legend, Nwankwo Kanu has raised alarm over an illegal takeover of his hotel. The hotel Hardley’s Apartment which is located in Victoria Island Lagos is subject of a court case over an alleged unrepaid bank loan.
Speaking to journalist, Kanu said the case between him and Assets Management Company (AMCON) has been on since 2015 at the Federal High Court Ikoyi, Lagos. He went on to ask why AMCON is already renovating his property when the court has not decided the case.
Kanu also revealed that most of his valued property, including his medals and Olympic torch, has been looted.
He laments:
“it is quit unfortunate that a legendary star, who gave his best to the country would be treated like this.
“This hotel serves many purposes. I have been using the money I get here to fund my heart foundation and also create jobs for people. Over 500 children are on the line for surgery and 200 are on the waiting list.
“Since the hotel has not been functioning, I find it difficult to get funds to assist these children. I have to go the extra mile to beg for funds. This is not fair. The government always tells former footballers not to invest overseas after retirement. They tell us to come back home and invest. I came back to invest and see what I am facing.“Is this a good experience for other upcoming footballers? Everybody knows I made my money from football. I deserve to be treated well in my country.
“I am Kanu Nwankwo not a foreigner. Right now I need my medals because they are what I will show my children that I served the country with all my heart when they grow up.” Kanu said the case was last heard in 2018 and then adjourned to January 31, 2019, adding that he was surprised to see that some people have taken possession of the hotel.
“They broke into my hotel without permission from the court. This is injustice to me for a country I gave my best”.
The former Arsenal player called on the appropriate authority to wade into the matter. Meanwhile all efforts to get AMCON’s view on the matter proved abortive as their officials seen at the premises of the hotel said they were not permitted to talk to the media.