Former Nigeria’s Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has been directed to immediately charge Abia Warriors’s management and operations until further notice.
Shorunmu was directed to take charge of the team by the club’s management following the suspension of head coach Imama Amapakabo and his assistant, Bethel Orji.
Amapakabo and Orji were suspended with immediate effect following Abia Warriors’ 2-0 home defeat to Kun Khalifat FC on Sunday in a crucial 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 37 fixture.
The defeat effectively ended the club’s chances of securing a continental ticket.
The sanctions were contained in a letter dated May 11, 2026, and signed by the club’s chairman, John Obuh, citing “insubordination’ as the reason for the suspension.
Amapakabo and his assistant’s suspension was further linked to incidents that reportedly overshadowed the club’s FA Cup semi-final clash against Ahudiyannem FC and the NPFL match against Kun Khalifat FC.
“Despite several directives and advice concerning adjustments to the team’s line-up in both matches, the coaching crew failed to comply with the instructions, resulting in defeats that brought embarrassment to the club and Abia State,” the club’s management explained.
The statement added that both officials would remain suspended pending the conclusion of investigations into the matter.
The Umuahia club will be away at Warri Wolves in their last game of the season.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has suspended referee Yakubu Adamu with immediate effect following his officiating in the Matchday 37 clash between league leaders Enugu Rangers and 6th-placed Bendel Insurance.
Adamu Awarded Rangers A Controversial Penalty During The Encounter, Which Striker Godwin Obaje Converted To Hand Fidelis Ilechukwu’s Side A 2-1 Victory.
The result keeps Enugu Rangers at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, table with 65 points, one point ahead of second-placed Rivers United, who defeated Wikki Tourists 3-2, while Shooting Stars occupy third place.
Following a review by the referees committee, the penalty decision was ruled as a violation of the laws of the game, with the committee stating that it gave undue advantage to the home side and brought the game into disrepute.
With Just One Round Of Matches Remaining This Season, Enugu Rangers Need Only A Draw Away To CAF Confederation Cup Chasing Ikorodu City To Clinch The 2025/2026 NPFL title.
Second-placed Rivers United will host Katsina United, hoping for a favorable result and a slip from the league leaders.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
