Akwa United declares Samuel Ganda missing, Issues warning to clubs and agents

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Akwa United has declared one of its key players, Samuel Ganda, missing after he failed to return to training for the past two months.

The club made the announcement through its media officer, Mfon Patrick, who stated that the defender has been absent without leave (AWOL) despite having a valid contract with the Promise Keepers until 2025.

In an official statement released on the club’s Facebook page, titled “AKWA UTD DECLARES DEFENDER SAMUEL GANDA MISSING,” the management of Akwa United expressed concern over Ganda’s unexplained absence and the lack of communication from the player.

“The Management of Akwa United Football Club wishes to bring to the attention of football authorities and the public that one of our players, Samuel Ganda, has failed to report at the team’s camp two months after resumption, and all efforts to reach him have been unsuccessful. We hereby declare him AWOL (Absent Without Leave),” the statement read.

Ganda, who joined the Uyo-based club last summer, is a vital part of the team’s defense, and his absence has raised alarms within the club. Akwa United emphasized that Ganda’s contract, signed by both parties, remains valid until 2025, with copies held by the player, his agent, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the NPFL, and Akwa United Football Club.

In light of Ganda’s disappearance, the club has issued a stern warning to all football clubs, associations, and licensed intermediaries (agents) not to engage in any transfer dealings with the player. Akwa United made it clear that any such engagements would be at the risk of the involved parties, and the club would hold them accountable for any contractual violations.

“By this release, Akwa United Football Club is placing the Nigeria Football Federation, Nigeria Premier Football League, and all football clubs on notice concerning the missing player,” Mfon Patrick stated.