Abia Warriors removed Imama Amapakabo as head coach on Wednesday, citing insubordination. The club also suspended assistant coach Bethel Oji for the same reason. Ike Shorunmu, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper, takes over as interim coach with immediate effect.
Amapakabo had been in charge of the club since his appointment, but the relationship between management and the technical crew deteriorated over recent weeks. The club did not spell out the exact nature of the insubordination that led to the suspension, but the decision was made after several days of tension between the coaching staff and the board.
Shorunmu brings significant experience to the role. He played for the national team as a goalkeeper during his active career and has worked in coaching capacities at various clubs. The interim arrangement means the club will evaluate potential permanent replacements while Shorunmu steadies the ship.
Abia Warriors compete in the Nigerian Premier Football League. The coaching change comes at a critical point in the season, and the club will hope Shorunmu can help the team refocus on their objectives. No statement was released on when the club would conclude its search for a permanent head coach or whether Amapakabo and Oji might appeal their suspensions.
