Nigeria Leagues
Ex-CEO Iorfa slams Lobi Stars’ management over blackmail & match fixing allegations
By: Dayo Awoniyi
Former Nigeria international, Dominic Iorfa, has strongly criticized the club’s current management, accusing them of blackmail and making unfounded match-fixing allegations aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
In a statement, ex-CEO of Lobi Stars Iorfa voiced his concerns that the management’s actions could severely damage the sports reputation of Benue State.
“Our dear Benue State is about to be thrown into disrepute due to the inept and unfit leadership of the current management of Lobi Stars,” he said.
Iorfa pointed to specific claims made by the current management, including accusations that the previous administration had “spiritualized” the club’s activities and was involved in match-fixing.
He referenced a recent public hearing where members of the management allegedly told the State House of Assembly that the former leadership had used spiritual means to influence the club’s operations.
“Recently, the management were called by the State House of Assembly where they embarrassingly told Assembly members that the past management spiritualized the activities of the club,” Iorfa said.
The ex-CEO expressed disbelief at the allegations, noting that Lobi Stars had enjoyed significant success during his tenure, which contradicts the claims of match-fixing.
“How can you have a Reverend Father as the Chief Servant of the state, and you accused the past management of spiritualizing your predicament, which has gone viral globally?” he asked.
Iorfa further emphasized the club’s achievements, particularly while playing away from home due to stadium issues.
Under his leadership, Lobi Stars reached two FA Cup finals and came close to winning the league title.
“In the past years, Lobi Stars have played in Jalingo, Taraba State for two seasons, and in Bauchi State for two seasons, including their continental matches,” he explained.
Additionally, Iorfa accused the current management of failing to meet their financial obligations to the players, revealing that the team was owed over 18 match bonuses, two months’ salaries, and other benefits.
He suggested that these financial struggles had affected the players’ motivation and performance. “How can the players be motivated when they cannot handle their welfare?” he asked.
Iorfa called on the public to disregard the allegations against him and hold the current management accountable for the club’s poor performance, including their recent relegation.
“I am calling on the public to disregard the allegations against me by the current management and for taking the club to relegation, a feat only three clubs have—Lobi Stars, Rangers, and Enyimba,” he stated.
The former CEO’s comments shed light on the ongoing tensions within Lobi Stars, and it remains to be seen how the club’s management will respond to the allegations.
