
Imama Amapakabo and Bethel Orji. Photo credit: Abia Warriors FC/Facebook
NPFL side Abia Warriors have taken the drastic step of immediately suspending head coach Imama Amapakabo and his assistant, Bethel Orji, with the duo ordered to vacate all club-related duties until further notice.
The severe disciplinary sanction follows Abia Warriors’ disappointing 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Kun Khalifat FC on Sunday, a result that came during a pivotal Matchday 37 fixture of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
The decision to sideline Amapakabo and his right-hand man is reportedly tied to a string of incidents that marred the club’s recent FA Cup semi-final clash against Ahudiyannem FC, compounded by the latest setback in the league against Kun Khalifat FC.
In the wake of the technical team’s suspension, Abia Warriors confirmed that legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu and his remaining assistants have been directed to take immediate control of the team’s management and operations.
Shorunmu will be tasked with stabilizing the squad and overseeing all first-team affairs as the club navigates the fallout of this internal crisis during the final stages of the NPFL campaign.