Abia Warriors suspend Amapakabo, Oji as Shorunmu takes interim charge

Nigeria Premier Football League club Abia Warriors have suspended technical adviser Imama Amapakabo and chief coach Bethel Oji over alleged acts of insubordination, with former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu appointed to take temporary charge of the team, Sport360NG reports.

The decision was communicated in an official letter dated May 11, 2026, signed by club chairman John Sam Obuh.

According to the club, both coaches have been relieved of all football-related responsibilities pending the outcome of ongoing investigations into the matter.

The statement added that Shorunmu, alongside his assistants, has been directed to oversee the team’s affairs until further notice.

The suspension is believed to be connected to incidents that occurred during Abia Warriors’ FA Cup semi-final defeat to Ahudiyannem FC and their Nigeria Premier Football League loss at home to Kun Khalifat.

Club management reportedly accused the coaching staff of ignoring directives and tactical advice relating to team selection and in-game adjustments during the two matches.

The club further stated that the alleged failure to comply with instructions contributed to results that embarrassed both the club and the Abia State government.

Abia Warriors confirmed that investigations into the incidents are continuing, while Amapakabo and Oji have been asked to cooperate fully with the panel handling the matter whenever required.

Shorunmu, a former Nigeria international who also served as a goalkeeping coach with the national teams, now shoulders the responsibility of steadying the club after a disappointing end to their campaign.

The situation comes at a critical point in the NPFL season, with Abia Warriors already out of contention for continental qualification and their final fixture against Warri Wolves left with little significance.