Super Eagles forward and Galatasaray star, Victor Osimhen, has come under fire after a viral video surfaced online featuring elderly men in Okhuesan, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, accusing the footballer of abandoning his paternal roots.
In the footage widely shared on social media, an elderly man identified as Omuyiwa John claimed to be a relative of Osimhen’s late father, Patrick Osimhen.
According to John, Osimhen’s father grew up in the community and shared close ties with residents before relocating to Lagos, where he eventually married and raised his family.
“Osimhen’s father has the same grandfather as me. We both attended the same primary school. He learnt to drive here before moving to Lagos,” John said, appearing beside another elderly man named Monday Egbe.
He alleged that when Patrick’s wife passed away, the community rallied financially to help complete the traditional marriage rites so she could be buried properly.
Expressing disappointment, John stated, “We are surprised Victor has completely disowned us. Despite our connection to his father, there’s been no support or acknowledgment from him to the community.”
The 26-year-old striker, who recently completed a loan move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, has enjoyed an impressive season, scoring 33 goals and attracting interest from major European clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United, and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal.
Despite his rising fame and documented philanthropic efforts in parts of Lagos, this latest controversy presents a new dimension to Osimhen’s public image — raising questions about community expectations placed on high-profile athletes.
So far, Osimhen has not issued a public response to the viral claims. His representatives also remain silent on the matter.