NFF declares Bauchi safe
by Humphrey Njoku 13 July 2012, 08:23
Despite security concern raised by participating teams about the Bauchi centre, the NFF on Thursday approved the zone to host Group A matches of the 2012 Federation Cup starting on Monday, July 16.
Speculation has been rife that the football house will move matches at the centre to a more secured place.
Teams scheduled to play at the Bauchi centre are last year's runners-up, Enyimba, Warri Wolves, Lobi Stars and Samba FC.
NFF spokesman, Ademola Olajire told SuperSport.com that there is no change of mind as it concerns Bauchi hosting Group A matches of the Cup competition.
"No, nothing has changed, Bauchi remains the Group A centre that will host matches involving Enyimba, Wolves, Lobi and Samba.
"Teams, especially the NPL sides, are being expected at the centre after the midweek's Matchday 34 for the commencement of football hostilities on Monday.
"NFF never considered changing the venue for whatever reason," he said.
SuperSport.com gathered from an official of Enyimba, Okey Nwabekee that the team are still staying put at Katsina Ala after its Week 34 game against Lobi Stars on Wednesday.
"We're still at Katsina-Ala after the midweek's game at Lobi. We're watching, no decision has been taken whether or not and when to leave for Bauchi," he said.
Lobi Stars' coach, John Zaki said management has not told them when to head to Bauchi but insisted that they will honour their matches.
"We're still at home after the league game on Wednesday, we've not been told when to leave but we'll go," he said.
An official of NFF who will not want his name in print told SuperSport.com that the federation president, Aminu Maigari appears to be putting his interest high over the security challenge in his state.
"Maigari is from Bauchi and is doing everything to protect his ego at the risk of human lives.
"He knows the security challenges in Bauchi, one expects him to have move the centre to somewhere else," he said.
Lokoja originally mentioned to host Group C matches involving NPL leaders, Enugu Rangers, Sharks, Prime FC and Dynamite Force has been relocated to Ibadan.
The state FA said they are not prepared to host the games although security challenge was fingered.
