Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has expressed worry at the declining performance of Lobi Stars in the current Nigeria Professional football League.
Governor Ortom told newsmen during an interview after flagging off-the 8th Edition of Science and Technical Colleges Games 2021 in Gbajimba, Guma local government area that the team has no excuse whatsoever for their poor run in the league
According to him, Government places premium on the team in huge funding, maintaining that it has been placed on first line charge.
Governor Ortom said he has met with chairman of the club who doubles as the Deputy Governor Engr. Benson Abounu as well as the Vice Chairman and discussed extensively issues responsible for the team’s dwindling performance.
He also, announced that there will be likely shake up in Lobi management to ensure optimal performance.
“Lobi is dear to the hearts of my administration and to all Benue people that is why we have placed the club on first line charge. I have met with my deputy Governor who is the chairman of the club to look critically at the issues with the club and by the time I get full briefing from him, action will be taken.
“But I want to assure you that if players were shortchanged as alleged such people must definitely be made to refund such money. The imporrtance we attach to Lobi Stars is seen in our action because we have placed the team on first line charge and their funds are released as salaries are paid and whenever there is extra expenditure and they seek my approval, I always approve so there should be no excuses.Once it is verified that certain persons were shortchanged, those who are responsible for that will be made to refund such money”, the Governor warned.
It should be noted that only recently after Lobi’s hard earned 2-1 win over Katsina United in Makurdi, fans carried placards alleging deduction of players salaries and allowances even as they called for the sack of the Vice Chairman Mike Idoko.
