Ever wondered why club football in Nigeria is almost comatose compared to the ones in North Africa, South Africa and elsewhere? The reason is poor remuneration and clear lack of welfare for the players.
At the moment, players of Lagos-based Ikorodu United FC have not been paid their salaries for the past six months. The players said this had affected their morale and those of the staff of the club.
They said that the dwindling fortunes of the club in their campaign in the Nigeria National League (NNL) were the result of the high indebtedness of the club to its officials and players.
The club was relegated to the lower league after their unsuccessful campaign in the 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Ikorodu United was demoted after coming last on the NPFL log with a measly seven wins, 11 draws and a huge 18 losses with just 32 points.
However, things have continued to go from bad to worse as Ikorodu United is now battling relegation from the NNL.
The Oga Boys currently sit second from the drop zone in the Southern Conference of NNL that has 18 teams.
The team occupies 16th position with a paltry three wins, three draws and 10 losses with 12 points from 15 matches.
Complaining about the team’s plight, a reliable source said that the management was to blame for its precarious position in the NNL.
“The management has to be blamed; they are not paying and expect us to play with empty stomach. We also have families who depend on us.
“It is a tough time for the club as some of the sponsors have also withdrawn their sponsorships. It is highly discouraging.
“The club need to do something fast so as not to lead the club to its extinction,’’ he said.
A player said anonymously that he was being owed six months’ salary arrears and that had affected his morale.
“Currently, I am not happy at all, I am indebted to many people whom I have promised to pay after our salaries are paid.
“Till now, we have not been paid for six months, I am just managing myself.’’
