By Aare Abiodun Oluwarotimi, Reporting for Nigerian Concord Newspaper
The governor of Benue state, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has removed the embattled Vice Chairman of Lobi Stars, Dominic Iorfa over high-handedness, insubordination and massive financial reckless.
Although, a press statement from the governor’s media Aide, Solomon Iorpev only said Iorfa and other members of Lobi Stars FC were removed without stating any reason, this newspaper recalled that several allegations of multiple frauds were made against the sacked vice chairman and CEO of the Benue state football club last year.
Apart from the fact that Iorfa was accused of match fixing an allegation which was reported to the Nigerian League Management Company, he was also accused of diverting several properties of the club to his personal use.
Efforts were made by his accusers to have Iorfa removed immediately Governor Alia assumed duties as governor last year but he was able to survive the heat with the help of a former governor of the state.
Various committees were set up by the governor to look into the crisis in Lobi Stars last year. One of the committees was headed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Dajoh Aondona but a lot of pressure was mounted on Governor Alia who unwillingly retained Iorfa.
DETAILED REPORTS ON IORFA ‘S ACTIVITIES IN AND SACK FROM LOBI STARS WILL BE Published BY THIS NEWSPAPER SHORTLY
Meanwhile, Iorpev in the press statement he issued to journalists this evening reads: “The executive governor of Benue state, his Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has directed that with immediate effect, the Lobi Stars FC be under Benue Sports Council.
2. A new Board of Lobi Stars FC has also been constituted.
The membership includes:
i. Dr. Philip Nongu – Chairman
ii. Dr. Iorngulum Malu – Secretary
iii. Chief Solomon Andiir – Member
iv. Mr. Harry Yachi – Member
v. Mr. Francis Ejiga – Member
vi. Sir James Iorpuu – Govt. Reps
The governor has directed that All Management handover must be completed before midnight today, Saturday”