Arsenal legend Kanu is not running for president of Nigeria

Former Arsenal and Inter Milan forward, Nwankwo Kanu, has denied media reports linking him with Nigeria’s presidential race in 2019.

April Fools’ joke

Last Sunday, Goal.com wrote an April Fools’ article revealing that the Super Eagles legend was inspired to follow in George Weah’s footsteps.

‘My presence here today is about the future of our country and the happiness of our people,’ the article by Goal.com cited Kanu as saying.

‘The last 18 years of leadership has witnessed a decline in all critical sectors of life in Nigeria, plus general insecurity in the land.

‘Also, I’ll do all it takes to wrestle corruption which has become blatant and widespread. The rest of the world looks at Nigeria as the home of corruption.

‘If I get your mandate, I promise to do things differently and restore honour and integrity to public service by keeping the best and attracting the best.

‘George Weah's victory in Liberia is a pointer that this dream is very realistic with you all on my side.'

However, several media outlets reported the news as a fact, generating heated arguments across media platforms.

Kanu shocked by reactions

Talking about Goal’s joke, the 41-year-old retired footballer said he was shocked at the way people and media reacted to the April Fools’ joke.

‘This is meant to be a joke but people haven’t seen it that way,’ Kanu told Goal.com on Wednesday.

‘I think there is a need to inform them that it is just April Fool.

‘My immediate concern is using my vast contacts and experience to develop the Nigerian youth through sports.

‘I also want to keep saving lives through the Kanu Heart Foundation.’

Kanu captained the Super Eagles from 1994 until 2010. He remains as one of Nigeria’s most successful footballers.