Boniface: Super Eagles flop in hot water with German authorities

Bayer Leverkusen and Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has found himself at the center of controversy following a video showing him using a mobile phone while driving at high speed on a German motorway.

The clip, initially posted on Instagram by Nigerian rapper Zoro Swagbag, captured Boniface driving his Mercedes-AMG on the A4 while holding his phone. 

In the footage, the 23-year-old appeared to be checking Instagram comments and Bayer Leverkusen’s lineup announcement ahead of their Champions League clash against Salzburg. 

According to German newspaper Bild the video, which was viewed over 31,500 times before being deleted, also showed Boniface driving at 141 km/h, exceeding the 120 km/h speed limit.

A troubling pattern and bad off-field reputation 

German traffic laws strictly prohibit using a mobile phone while driving, with violations carrying a minimum fine of €128.50 and one penalty point. 

Social media users were quick to condemn Boniface’s actions, with one viral post on X (formerly Twitter) highlighting his disregard for road safety just weeks after surviving a serious car accident.

The incident comes barely six weeks after Boniface was involved in a car crash as a passenger. In that accident, the vehicle overturned after the driver lost control, leaving Boniface with minor injuries.

Critics have pointed out that his recent behavior suggests he has not learned from the earlier ordeal.

The Ondo-born forward, who is currently sidelined with a thigh injury sustained during a 2025 AFCON qualifier, has been in stellar form for Leverkusen this season, scoring eight goals in 15 matches. 

However, his off-field actions have drawn questions about his suitability as a role model for his young fans.