Wikki Tourists FC will have to rely on their old players to execute their NPFL match against Sunshine Stars who are also facing a similar ban by the World governing FIFA, Felele247.com understand.
The Yankari Elephants arrived at Ijebu Ode on Saturday, the adopted home of Sunshine Stars, earlier than the hosts and had a feel of the Dipo Dina Stadium turf with the full complement of their squad, but surprisingly chose not to turn up for the match proper on Sunday.
Last season, Wikki Tourists signed Egyptian international Mahmoud Gamal during the midseason transfer window from Misr Insurance for one and the half-season, but the defender was dropped at the end of the 2020/2021 season which resulted in the player representative and the player lodging a complaint to FIFA.
The Bauchi immediately placed under transfer ban by FIFA two months ago fear of defeat against Sunshine Stars, Wikki opted to flout the rules by not showing for the encounter, banking on their contacts within the top echelon of the league body to influence the match officials who have decided not to observe walk over formality in favour of the hosts.
A top official of Sunshine Stars disclosed that the League Management should do the right thing be done in line with the rules and precedents.
We should all be treated equally in the league and as such, three points, three goals should be awarded to us (Sunshine Stars). Though Wikki can decide to appeal such decision later for a possible replay like in the case of FC Ifeanuiuba vs. MFM. Refusing to carry out the walk over formality now look very harsh and unfair to us.
We can’t be running a system where all animals are equal but some are more equal, this is not in the best interest of the league. The management will consider the option available and decide.” said a source that plead anonymity within Sunshine Stars.
