Dakkada FC have moved swiftly to prevent a looming contractual crisis following the Nigeria National League’s (NNL) confirmation of the club’s withdrawal from the 2025/2026 season—just two days before their scheduled opener against Beyond Limits.
The abrupt withdrawal immediately raised two major concerns: who would bear the financial responsibilities arising from existing contracts, and how the NNL would respond to the disruption.
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While the league body has already adjusted the Conference A fixtures to accommodate the development, it is yet to issue any disciplinary ruling regarding Dakkada FC’s late pullout.
In a bid to avoid an escalation, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, held a meeting with Dakkada FC players and management to address the situation.
Elder Bassey noted that the information available to him supports the club owner’s decision but assured the players that stakeholders are working diligently to find a fair resolution. He also cautioned all parties against actions capable of worsening the crisis.
According to internal sources, the players had planned a peaceful protest last Friday and had formally notified security agencies.
However, the Commissioner intervened promptly, leading to a crucial meeting where both sides agreed to an amicable settlement.
The agreement includes: Payment of two and a half months’ salary, with
one and a half months to be paid this weekend, and while the remaining
one month scheduled for December 15.
Following these payments, players are expected to receive their clearance certificates, enabling them to sign for other clubs without hindrance.
In reacting to the development, football labour dispute expert , and FIFA-licensed football agent, Eddie Ogbemudia, praised the club for heeding earlier advice to resolve their contractual obligations, noting that failure to act could have resulted in serious legal and regulatory consequences.
“There was a real need to reach an agreement with contracted players and coaches,” Ogbemudia stressed.
“Otherwise, the club would have been obligated to continue paying salaries and emoluments as stipulated in the contracts, since the players cannot immediately switch to other teams and should not be made to bear the burden of being rendered jobless by the club’s decision.”
With the settlement process now underway, Dakkada FC appear to have avoided what could have escalated into a major labour and regulatory dispute, allowing affected players to continue their careers without further uncertainty.
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