- Allegations baseless, aimed at tarnishing my reputation: Perm Sec
- We are not striking, social media blew it up: Captain Osanga
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa football scene is facing controversy after players of Nasarawa United staged a protest against alleged unpaid dues and interference from former club Chairman, Isaac Danladi.
The players claimed they have not received their bonuses and were denied payment for flight tickets, as ordered by the Nasarawa State Governor. However, Danladi, now the Permanent Secretary of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, denied the allegations, calling them baseless and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Danladi clarified that while all player dues are being processed, the delay in disbursing match bonuses is due to government bureaucracy, awaiting the governor’s approval. He also explained that funds were loaned externally to facilitate the travel of Nasarawa Amazons for a league match, pending government approval.
Regarding the alleged 11 million naira earmarked for the players’ travel expenses, Danladi confirmed its allocation and assured that the players would receive their entitled share.
Professor Othman Abdullahi Ibrahim, the club chairman, clarified that players’ concerns were addressed during discussions with management, leading to an amicable resolution. Nasarawa United captain, King Osanga, affirmed that the players’ decision to abstain from training was not a strike but rather a means to seek clarification on their entitlements. He emphasized the cooperative relationship between players, management, and the ministry.
With Nasarawa United gearing up for the upcoming Super 8 in Enugu, the resolution of these disputes will be crucial in maintaining team cohesion and focus amidst the challenges.