Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is facing allegations of assault after reportedly punching a journalist during a late-night outing in Istanbul, Turkey.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, was leaving an entertainment venue with friends when the incident occurred.
According to Turkey’s Posta newspaper, a group of reporters attempted to photograph the Nigerian football star which lead o a heated confrontation.
Journalist Tolga Bozduman, one of the reporters present, recounted the chaotic scene:
“I was filming Osimhen at the door with three of my colleagues. When the flashes went off, everything turned upside down. He ran at me, yelling, and tried to snatch my camera. I resisted, and that’s when he punched me in the head. The pain on my right side hasn’t subsided.”he said.
Bozduman alleged that Osimhen followed up the altercation with threats and attempted bribery.
“He said, ‘Destroy the footage, and I’ll pay you.’ When I refused, he threatened, ‘I’ll destroy you.’”
Neither Osimhen nor Galatasaray has issued an official statement addressing the allegations.
Despite the off-field controversy, Osimhen continues to shine on the pitch.
The 26-year-old striker has netted 15 goals and delivered six assists in 19 matches across all competitions for Galatasaray this season.