“It’s a national duty” – Utaka reacts to Musa’s exit from Super Eagles camp for wedding

Former Super Eagles forward John Utaka has weighed in on the recent controversy surrounding Ahmed Musa’s unexpected departure from the national team camp ahead of Nigeria’s Unity Cup clash with Jamaica, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Leicester City star left the Super Eagles camp in London shortly after featuring in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Ghana, with initial reports citing “personal reasons.”

However, Nigerian football fans were later surprised to discover that the veteran forward had returned to Kano to get married to a new wife, Asma’u — his fourth marriage.

Ahmed Musa marries his 4th wife today in Kano. pic.twitter.com/l9i3ygUGg1

— (@AsakyGRN) May 30, 2025

Speaking on Brila FM, Utaka questioned the communication and transparency surrounding the incident, particularly given the importance of national team commitments.

“We don't know what discussions were held before Musa went to camp. It's a national duty — things have to be done correctly,” Utaka said.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that the wedding might have been scheduled long before the Unity Cup fixture, and there may have been a clash of dates beyond Musa's control. The forward had also been eager to return to the national team setup after a long absence.

While some players have excused themselves from Super Eagles duties for less convincing reasons, Musa seemingly managed to kill two birds with one stone—honoring his personal dealings and national colours.

Musa, 31, made his first Super Eagles appearance since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, coming off the bench in the second half against Ghana. His exit from the camp meant he missed Nigeria’s final Unity Cup fixture against Jamaica.