Enugu Rangers has forcefully rejected allegations from Super Eagles winger Moses Simon that the club denied him a contract due to his ethnic background. The seven-time Nigerian champions said they've never practised discrimination based on tribe, religion or place of origin.
Simon, who plays for Paris FC, claimed in an interview that he was dropped after a three-month trial because he wasn't Igbo. Rangers responded with an official statement signed by general manager Amobi Ezeaku and posted on the club's X account on Friday.
"While we respect every player's right to recount his personal journey, it is important to clearly state that Rangers International FC has never maintained, and does not maintain, any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin," the statement read.
The club described itself as one of Nigeria's foremost football institutions with over five decades of history. Though proudly rooted in Enugu and the South-East, Rangers said it's always functioned as a national club.
"For over five decades, Rangers has stood as one of Nigeria's foremost national football institutions," the statement noted. The club added that throughout its history, it has employed players, coaches and officials from virtually every region of the country and continent.
Rangers rejected suggestions that ethnicity influences its recruitment decisions in any way. According to the club, football ability and character have always been the deciding factors for player selection.
"The club's recruitment philosophy has always been based on footballing ability, character, discipline and commitment, not ethnic identity," the statement explained. Rangers noted that thousands of players have passed through the club over the years, with some earning contracts and others not.
"Such decisions are part of football and are influenced by numerous sporting, technical and administrative considerations," Rangers added. The club said it would be inaccurate to characterise it as an institution that discriminates against players based on ethnicity.
Rangers highlighted that the current administration has deliberately strengthened its commitment to professionalism, meritocracy, diversity and inclusion. The men's, women's and youth teams continue to recruit talented footballers from every part of Nigeria and beyond, the club confirmed.
"Rangers remains committed to providing equal opportunities to every talented player regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin," the statement said. The club noted that excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity define its values.
Rangers said it will continue to serve as a symbol of national integration where talent matters more than tribal affiliation. The club stressed that performance remains the ultimate criterion for any player seeking a place in its teams.
