Exclusive: Enyimba FC Chairman Kanu Nwankwo Set for Talks with Governor Alex Otti over Coaching Drama
Fresh details have emerged over the ongoing coaching crisis at Enyimba FC, with club chairman Kanu Nwankwo expected to hold talks with Abia State Governor Alex Otti today.
SportsRation gathered from a senior club management source that the meeting is aimed at resolving the controversy surrounding the state government’s decision to announce a new head coach to replace Deji Ayeni, who was only recently appointed by the club’s management.
Despite reports of his dismissal, Ayeni remains in charge of the team for now. The former Crown FC coach is currently with the squad in Lafia, where Enyimba are preparing for their Nigeria Premier Football League clash against Nasarawa United FC.
Sources within the club insist that Ayeni still enjoys the full backing of the Kanu Nwankwo-led management, who appointed him earlier this month. According to the source, the outcome of today’s talks will play a major role in deciding Ayeni’s future at the club.
The management is said to be unhappy with the government’s direct announcement of a replacement, describing it as embarrassing and an interference in their duties. Club officials believe such decisions should follow proper consultation with those running the football side of the club.
The drama began after the Abia State Government announced the appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as new head coach, barely a month after Ayeni took charge and following just three competitive matches.
The timing of the announcement raised eyebrows, as it came early Sunday morning while Ayeni was still returning from Enyimba’s 2–0 away defeat to Niger Tornadoes. At the time, no official statement had been made by the Enyimba management.
Ayeni’s brief spell has been difficult, with Enyimba drawing 0–0 against Barau FC in Aba, losing 3–0 to Shooting Stars, suffering a 2–0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes, and also losing a friendly match to Akwa United.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, Governor Otti said the appointment of Deutsch was part of efforts to restore Enyimba’s competitiveness and return the club to its traditional standards.
However, with Ayeni still working with the team and talks now expected between Kanu Nwankwo and the governor, the situation remains unresolved.
As Enyimba prepare for their next league match, all eyes will be on the outcome of the high-level meeting, which could determine the direction of the club in the days ahead.
