Akwa Ibom FA denies favouring any team in AITEO Cup competition

Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr. Emmanuel Ibah has described as untrue the insinuation that the state FA was biased in the organisation of the AITEO Cup competition.

Speaking during the official draws ceremony for this year’s competition in Uyo at the weekend, Ibah said such insinuations were unfounded, stressing that the state FA had always provided a level playing field for all participating clubs.

The chairman explained that fears being expressed by other participating teams that the state Premier League side, Akwa United FC would always win the competition remained unsportsmanlike, even as lower league clubs continue to allege unfair officiating in favour of Akwa United FC.

He decried the decline in the number of participating teams and reminded coaches and stakeholders of the importance of the AITEO Cup as a veritable hunting ground for talents.

“All teams are on the same platform and are guaranteed a level playing field; rules will be applied properly,” he said.

Only 12 teams registered for this year’s competition in the male category, while two teams, including Ibom Angels FC and Police Machines FC registered in the female category.

Other clubs that would slug it out with United include Akwa Starlets, Ibom Youths FC, Cofine FC, Flying Sports FC,  Ituen International Football Academy, Rapture Academy, Casseil Football Academy , Macito Solution FC, Immortality FC, Pro 2 United FC and Hills FC.