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Mid-season disruption feared in Imo State after Governor Hope Uzodinma intervenes at NPFL team Heartland again.
In a controversial move, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has ordered the reinstatement of Christian Obi as the technical adviser of Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL, Heartland FC.
Obi was previously removed from the position earlier this season after he led the club back to the NPFL following a run of nine matches without a win and was replaced by former NPFL winner, Kennedy Boboye.
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06:56 - 22.11.2023
NWFL: Heartland Queens targets away victory in Lafia
Actions resumed on Wednesday across different centers for matchday two of the Nigeria Women Football Club (NWFL) as Nasarawa Amazons host Heartland Queens at the Lafia City Stadium.
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23:55 - 13.05.2023
Two-time NPFL-title-winning-coach Kennedy Boboye bags UEFA license, eyeing Super Eagles
In 2017, Boboye helped Plateau United to their first-ever NPFL title. In 2021, he repeated the same feat with southern underdogs, Akwa United.
Uzodinma reinstates Obi
However, according to Pulse Sports sources, the Governor, who hails from the same Oru clan as Obi, has now ordered his return in what is seen as a political decision rather than a sporting one.
This controversial move means the current manager at Heartland Boboye will be removed from his role despite leading the club's attempt to avoid relegation this season.
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Sources say Uzodinma held a meeting with the State Commissioner for Sports and directed that Obi be reinstated.
The move has been criticized by many as blatant political interference in the club's affairs, with Obi’s wife reportedly an APC Chieftain in Imo State.
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Heartland supporters, in particular, are upset that sporting merit is being discarded in favour of political patronage, with little regard for the welfare of players, coaches and fans. There are concerns the club could suffer from the disruption mid-season.
Governor Uzodinma has come under fire in the past for getting overly involved in the management of Heartland FC.
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This latest incident will only heighten accusations of him using the club to service political allies rather than act in the best interest of the team.
Heartland could be without a coach when they host NPFL leaders Remo Stars later today in a week 16 encounter in Owerri.
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