Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has been appointed as the interim head coach of Abia Warriors for the remainder of the season. This announcement follows the suspension of head coach Imama Amapakabo and assistant Bethel Orji. The disciplinary action was taken after the Warriors suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Kun Khalifat FC on Sunday, a loss that effectively dashed the team’s hopes of qualifying for a continental competition.
In light of this setback, the club’s management has ordered Amapakabo and Orji to refrain from any further involvement with the team, leading to Shorunmu’s elevation to the head coaching position. Shorunmu, a former national team custodian, steps into a challenging environment. The recent league defeat is compounded by the fact that Abia Warriors were also eliminated from the Abia State FA Cup semi-final by Ahudiyannem FC, marking a difficult period for the Umuahia-based club.
As the Warriors prepare for their final league fixture against Warri Wolves, Shorunmu will aim to guide the team to a positive conclusion to the season and rebuild momentum ahead of the next campaign. His appointment also reflects a growing trend of former players transitioning into coaching roles within Nigerian football.
