Akwa United FC has been reprimanded by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following an incident in which the club’s Welfare Officer, Mr. Asuquo Samuel, was filmed threatening the crew of Propel Sports Africa (PSA)
The incident took place during the club’s 1-1 draw with Bendel Insurance on Monday, December 10, 2024.
#NPFL25 queries Akwa Utd over threat to broadcast partner
Details pic.twitter.com/4WzBkAKA4t
— NPFL (@NigeriaPFL) December 12, 2024
In response, the NPFL issued a formal warning to Akwa United, expressing grave concern over Mr. Asuquo’s actions.
A letter from the NPFL, signed by Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, described the harassment and intimidation of Propel Sports’ technical staff as unacceptable, highlighting the legal risks, reputational damage, and financial costs such behavior could cause the league.
The letter stressed that the actions of Akwa United’s official fell short of the professionalism expected within the NPFL, violating the league’s core principles.
The club was warned that any recurrence of such behavior would result in severe sanctions against both the club and the individual involved.
As a result, Mr. Asuquo has been invited to appear before a disciplinary panel in Abuja on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
The NPFL emphasized that attendance is mandatory, and failure to appear may lead to further disciplinary actions.
The NPFL has also instructed Akwa United to take immediate action to ensure such incidents do not recur, reminding the club of its responsibility to uphold the integrity and professionalism of the league.
Head coach of Akwa United, Mohammed Babaganaru, has reportedly resigned from his position following a 1-1 draw against Bendel Insurance in Uyo.
The Kano-born coach joined the Promised Keepers towards the end of last season and helped the team avoid relegation. However, this… pic.twitter.com/EYFs71YJYy
— Nsidibe Akpan (@nsidibeakpan23) December 9, 2024
Akwa United is enduring a challenging season. The club currently sits in the relegation zone, having recorded 4 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses from 16 matches.
Their struggles this season have led to heavy criticism, with the resignation of Technical Adviser Mohammed Babaganaru, who stepped down amid mounting pressure.
Akwa United’s next challenge comes in Match Day 17, where they will face a rejuvenated Bayelsa United, managed by Ladan Bosso, in Yengoa.