Gov. Diri Dissolves Bayelsa United Board, Sacks Coaches and Players After Relegation

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has ordered a sweeping overhaul of Bayelsa United following the club’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), dissolving the club’s board and dismissing its coaches and players.

The decision comes weeks after Bayelsa United’s relegation from Nigeria’s top-flight league was confirmed following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign. The Yenagoa-based side ended its four-year stay in the NPFL after failing to secure enough points to avoid the drop.

Government sources said the move is aimed at restructuring the club and restoring its competitiveness ahead of life in the second-tier Nigeria National League (NNL). The governor reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance and insisted that significant changes were necessary to rebuild the club.

The mass dismissal affects the club’s management board, technical crew, and playing squad, making it one of the most dramatic shake-ups in Nigerian football this season.

Bayelsa United’s relegation was confirmed after a 2-1 defeat to Remo Stars, a result that left the club stranded in the relegation zone with no possibility of survival. The setback ended hopes of remaining in the NPFL and sparked calls for accountability from supporters and stakeholders.

Sports observers say the governor’s decision signals the beginning of a rebuilding process as the club prepares for the challenges of competing in the NNL next season. New appointments to the board and technical department are expected in the coming weeks.

Bayelsa United, former winners of the Nigerian Federation Cup, now face the task of rebuilding their squad and regaining promotion to the NPFL.