2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 37: Kun Khalifat dents Abia Warriors’ continental hopes in Aba

Posted : 11 May 2026

Abia Warriors FC suffered a major setback in their pursuit of a continental ticket after a determined Kun Khalifat FC side secured a stunning 2-0 victory in the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 37 encounter played at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.

The visitors, who came into the fixture desperate to escape relegation, displayed resilience and attacking intent throughout the contest as Uche Onouha’s first-half brace proved decisive in handing the Imolites a vital victory over the hosts.

Kun Khalifat’s spirited performance not only ended Abia Warriors’ hopes of strengthening their continental ambitions, but also significantly boosted their survival chances as the club climbed to 14th position on the league table with 46 points, moving out of the relegation zone.

Speaking after the game, Kun Khalifat head coach, Obinna Uzoho, praised his players for their determination and composure against the Umuahia-based side.

“I am so happy with the performance of my players.

“We won’t give up on our relegation push and we will continue to fight until the end.

“I have the players to fight for the cause of the team and we are doing collective,” Uzoho said.

The defeat further compounded Abia Warriors’ disappointing run, leaving the club in seventh position on 55 points with only one away fixture remaining this season.

In the aftermath of the result, Abia Warriors management announced the suspension of Technical Adviser Imama Amapakabo and Chief Coach Bethel Oji from all club activities over alleged acts of insubordination.

In an official letter dated May 11, 2026, and signed by club chairman John Sam Obuh, the NPFL side confirmed that the suspension takes immediate effect pending the outcome of investigations.

Despite guiding the Warriors to their first-ever continental appearance after finishing third last season, the club stated that the disciplinary action followed incidents during their FA Cup semi-final clash against Ahudiyannem FC and the 2-0 league defeat to Kun Khalifat FC.

According to the statement, management had issued directives and advice regarding adjustments to the team line-up in both matches, but alleged that the coaching crew failed to comply.

The club further claimed that the actions allegedly contributed to defeats which “brought embarrassment to the club and the entire state.”

Abia Warriors also announced that former Nigeria international goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu and his assistants have been directed to take immediate charge of the team’s management and operations until further notice.

The suspended officials were equally instructed to cooperate fully with the investigation panel whenever required by the club.

The shocking defeat and subsequent suspension of the coaching staff have thrown Abia Warriors into a state of uncertainty as the season nears its conclusion. While Kun Khalifat celebrates a massive step toward safety, the Umuahia-based club must now navigate internal turmoil while attempting to salvage their remaining fixtures under interim leadership.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 37: Kun Khalifat dents Abia Warriors’ continental hopes in Aba

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