NPL investigating Lobi ‘walk over’ by Ocean Boys-Babalola

The week 33 match which was to be played at the Samson Siasia Stadium Yenagoa between Ocean Boys and Lobi Stars could not hold following alleged attempt by one of Lobi’s former players, Okey Akubuogu to harass and arrest officials of the club over money he claimed Lobi is owing him since 1997. Consequently, it […]

The week 33 match which was to be played at the Samson Siasia Stadium Yenagoa between Ocean Boys and Lobi Stars could not hold following alleged attempt by one of Lobi’s former players, Okey Akubuogu to harass and arrest officials of the club over money he claimed Lobi is owing him since 1997.

Consequently, it is said a walk over was performed to award the three points to the host team but the visitors who accused Ocean Boys of masterminding the attack on the team by its ex-player promptly protested to the NPL.

However, Ocean Boys is insisting on having the three points which would do a lot of good especially now that the club is battling with relegation.

In a chat with Fever Pitch yesterday, Babalola said the secretariat would not rush into any decision as it plans to ensure that all conditions for walk over were met by the match officials.

“We cannot just accept a walk over in favour of Ocean Boys. To be fair to both clubs, we have to get all the detailed reports concerning the match in question. A walk over cannot be carried out unless there are enough reasons for doing so.

“We are expecting a written report from the player who allegedly perpetrated the act. He is going to tender useful information. We want to be fair to all the parties”.

Babalola said when investigation is completed; the league board will forward its findings to the NFF disciplinary committee which would take the final decision.