Lobi Stars Players Face Sack Threat Amid Wage Dispute

Nigerian National League (NNL) side, Lobi Stars, have issued a stark warning to players who have raised concerns over unpaid wages, threatening them with dismissal. The club’s management has taken a firm stance against any form of protest, asserting that such actions will lead to immediate termination.

The controversy escalated following allegations from several players of selective payment practices within the club. However, Lobi Stars’ senior media officer, Mr. Austin Tyowua, has vehemently denied these claims, insisting that all players are treated equally regarding salary disbursements.

Speaking exclusively to LEADERSHIP Sports, Tyowua stated, “Any group of players that stages a protest regarding unpaid salaries will automatically receive their sack letters.”

The dispute reportedly intensified after a recent 1-0 victory against City FC of Abuja, where it was alleged that players who participated in the match received their salaries, while those who did not travel were left unpaid. Tyowua dismissed these specific allegations, clarifying that the club only registers 20 players for NNL or NPFL matches, making the claim of 22 players being paid for the Abuja match misleading.

Tyowua explained that the club is in the process of transitioning its salary payments to Novus Bank, a financial institution owned by the Benue State government, which also serves as a key financier for Lobi Stars. This move aims to provide staff and players with access to credit facilities and to support the government.

He attributed the recent payment delays to technical issues with the bank transfer system, specifically problems with internet banking that hindered the movement of funds from Union Bank to Novus Bank. To resolve this, the chairman ultimately decided to process payments through Union Bank to ensure all players and staff received their dues in their existing accounts.

Tyowua acknowledged that complaints have emerged from not only players but also management and backroom staff, emphasising that the issue is a “technical matter linked to our banking transition” rather than selective payment.

With a squad of 62 players, 40 of whom are registered for the current season, Tyowua reiterated that the club has consistently paid all 62 players throughout the season, making the claims of selective payment unfounded.

He concluded with a stern warning: “If players choose to go ahead with their protest, they will only be jeopardising their positions within the club. It’s important for them to check with the management regarding their salary concerns instead of jumping to conclusions.” He added that any contract termination would be handled appropriately and with due process.

The situation at Lobi Stars remains tense as players grapple with their concerns amidst the management’s uncompromising position.