The club’s goalkeeper Djomeni Parfait Eric has accused club president Nkwain Valentine of kidnapping and torturing him amid allegations of match-fixing following the team’s recent defeats.
The family of Eric Parfait Djomeni, goalkeeper of Victoria United Football Club, also known as Opopo, has filed a lawsuit against the club’s president, Valentine Nkwain, alleging kidnapping and torture. The complaint, submitted by the law firm Djemeni Yannick & Partners on February 25, 2025, accuses Nkwain of detaining Djomeni for four days due to suspicions that he placed bets contributing to the team’s recent losses. Victoria United released a video on social media denying the allegations. In the video, Djomeni stated that he was in good health and refuted claims of mistreatment. The club’s captain also expressed support, emphasizing team unity.
The club issued a statement describing the accusations as “malicious” and reaffirmed its commitment to integrity. The legal complaint demands that the accused be held accountable under the law. The lawyers are calling for authorities to punish the president of Victoria United in accordance with the Penal Code. Article 291 of the Code which states: “Anyone who, in any manner whatsoever, deprives another person of their freedom shall be punished with imprisonment of five (5) to ten (10) years and a fine ranging from twenty thousand (20,000) to one million (1,000,000) francs.” The lawyers also argue that Article 227(3) of the Penal Code should apply in Nkwain’s case.
This article states that if torture results in the victim suffering an illness or inability to work for more than 30 days, the perpetrator can be sentenced to imprisonment of five to ten years, along with a fine between 100,000 and 1,000,000 francs. “Therefore, by this letter, we are bringing this matter to your attention so that appropriate measures may be taken to ensure justice is served,” the lawyers concluded. However, it’s yet to be proven whether or not Nkwain is guilty of the accusations or not.
What really happened?
Reports circulated on social media alleging that Djomeni was detained and tortured by club officials. Victoria United dismissed these claims, releasing footage of Djomeni training with his teammates. However, AfrikInform.com published an interview with Djomeni’s mother, who claimed that her son initially reassured her in French that he was fine but later disclosed in their native language that he had been tortured. She stated that during a visit to the club, she observed whip marks on his body and subsequently filed a police complaint. Later, new footage emerged in which Djomeni claimed he had been locked in a room for three days. Victoria United posted videos on its official Facebook page showing Djomeni packing his belongings and leaving the camp. The club described these videos as proof of his voluntary departure.
However, critics argue that the footage raises further concerns regarding the circumstances of his exit. The law firm Djemeni & Partners formally filed a complaint against Nkwain for kidnapping, torture, and unlawful detention. The National Union of Cameroonian Footballers, SYNAFOC, condemned the alleged actions, calling for legal action and urging players to report mistreatment. SYNAFOC emphasized that players must be protected from abuse and should feel safe voicing concerns without fear of retaliation. Human rights organizations have also taken note of the case, calling for an independent investigation to ensure transparency and accountability. Some have urged FIFA and CAF to intervene, citing the need for international football governing bodies to take a stance against such incidents.
The Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, pressure is mounting for the federation to intervene, as the case has sparked debates about player protection in the country’s football system. Some football analysts believe this case highlights the need for stricter oversight of club management practices. Legal experts point out that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how player rights are enforced in Cameroon. Authorities are currently reviewing the complaint, and legal proceedings are expected to follow. Investigators are gathering witness statements and examining the videos released by both the club and independent media.
