Following report that three Former Club Vice Chairmen of Lobi Stars Football club are to Refund ₦2.445bn, Mike Idoko a former Manager of the club has described the report as misrepresentation of his commitment to the club while Setting the Record Straight.
In a statement he signed, Idoko, noted how he stabilized the club when he took over in 2016 and wondered why the allegation.
He urged those concerned to look into his achievements but assured of cooperating with the investigation team when the need arises.
The statement reads: “In light of recent reports and allegations stemming from the White Paper on the Forensic Audit Investigation into the financial transactions of Lobi Stars Football Club, I, Mike Idoko, feel compelled to clarify certain points and set the record straight regarding my stewardship of the club. While I fully respect the investigative process and the intent to ensure transparency and accountability, I must unequivocally state that the claims against my person and tenure are both distressing and misrepresentative of my unwavering commitment and sacrifices for the club.
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“When I assumed leadership of Lobi Stars Football Club in 2016, the club faced a dire need for stability, direction, and a revival of its glory days. Through tireless effort and strategic management, I was able to achieve the following milestones:
“2016: The club finished 5th on the league table.
2017: The team secured 7th place, demonstrating consistent performance.
2018: Lobi Stars won the Nigeria Professional Football League title, marking a historic return to continental football through qualification for the CAF Champions League 2018/2019. This achievement mirrored the success I had as Team Manager during the 1999/2000 season.
2019: The team finished as runners-up, with another strong showing in the 2019/2020 season, finishing in 3rd place.
“2021: At the time of my exit in April, the team was ranked 5th on the table.
The financial demands of managing a professional football club are widely recognized, and government subventions often fall short of the immediate needs for salaries, logistics, and matchday expenses. On numerous occasions, I personally sourced funds to ensure the club’s operations continued seamlessly. This included mortgaging personal properties and depleting my resources to keep the club functioning.
“These sacrifices came at a significant personal cost, including strain on my family and the loss of personal assets. However, my love for Lobi Stars FC and my commitment to its success have never wavered.
“As one of Nigeria’s most accomplished football administrators, my track record spans five of the six geopolitical zones, with each marked by significant achievements. The reputation I have built over decades in Nigerian football is now being unfairly tarnished, despite my dedication to the sport and to Lobi Stars.
“I urge stakeholders and the general public to reflect on my achievements and the sacrifices I made during my tenure. Instead of vilifying individuals who have devoted their lives to the growth of Nigerian football, we should focus on constructive dialogue and collaboration to ensure the continued progress of Lobi Stars Football Club.
“Finally, I reaffirm my willingness to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigative processes to clear my name and protect the legacy of Lobi Stars FC—a club I have nurtured like my own child. I remain confident that the truth will prevail, and my enduring contributions to Nigerian football will speak for themselves.”
