Junior Lokosa Wins FIFA Case Against Al Naser Zliten in Landmark Victory

Junior Lokosa, the talented striker for Enyimba FC, has won a major legal battle at the FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber DRC against Libyan side Al Naser Zliten. As represented by PCN Sportiva LP, Lokosa defended his right to fair compensation in football contracts.

The DRC ruling emphasised that no player can waive entitlements for work already done or future work under an employment contract. PCN Sportiva LP argued the case by citing Article 20(1) of the Swiss Code of Obligations SCO, which invalidates such waivers.

FIFA’s decision confirmed that forcing a player to relinquish earnings for completed or forthcoming duties is immoral and unenforceable. Even waivers that attempt to exclude future entitlements but cover only outstanding wages were ruled null and void. Under Article 341 SCO, the right to be paid for completed work is an inalienable protection.

This landmark victory sets a significant precedent in football, ensuring that players worldwide remain protected from unfair contract conditions and can claim what they are duly owed.

Editorial

We applaud Junior Lokosa’s determination to stand up for what is right, and we are thrilled to see FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber deliver a verdict that not only safeguards his rights but also sets a strong precedent for the entire football community.

For too long, players especially those venturing abroad have faced unfair contractual demands. Some are pressured into signing away wages for work already done, often out of fear of jeopardising their careers. It’s a practice that undermines the integrity of professional football and exploits athletes who pour their effort, time, and talent into the game.

This ruling reaffirms the legal principle that work must be fairly compensated. PCN Sportiva LP’s argument, based on Article 20(1) and Article 341 of the Swiss Code of Obligations, brought clarity to an issue that should never have existed in professional sport. Clubs must no longer believe they can strong-arm players into waiving their hard-earned pay.

We believe this victory will embolden more players to seek justice when faced with similar injustices. It sends a clear message that even when faced with powerful clubs or foreign legal systems, players are not powerless.

This case is more than just about one player and one club. It is a step forward for fairness in football contracts globally. We hope clubs, agents, and players take note. Fairness must always remain at the heart of any professional agreement, and the beautiful game deserves nothing less.

Did You Know?

1. The FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber was established in 2001 to handle contractual and employment-related disputes between players and clubs.
2. Junior Lokosa won the Nigerian Professional Football League Golden Boot in the 2017/18 season with 19 goals.
3. Article 341 of the Swiss Code of Obligations protects workers from waiving their legal right to salary even after employment ends.
4. PCN Sportiva LP has represented several African players in international sports legal disputes.
5. FIFA rulings in the DRC are enforceable across all member associations and can lead to club sanctions if ignored.