Wikki Tourists have announced that six of their players have been declared Absent Without Official Leave (AWOL) and reported to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), in a fresh development following the club’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The Bauchi based side confirmed the decision in an official statement signed by club secretary Adamu Idris Pali and dated June 5, 2026.
According to the statement, the affected players failed to report for training and other official club engagements without authorization despite efforts by management to establish contact and secure their return.
The six players named by the club are Abdullahi Pepe, Chizoba Okoh, Sani Ibrahim, Abubakar Ibrahim Aliyu, Ibrahim Shuaibu and Barhama Mansur.
“The club considers this development a serious breach of professional conduct and contractual obligations,” the statement read.
“Despite efforts by the management to establish contact and secure their return to camp, the players have neither resumed duties nor provided satisfactory explanations for their absence.”
Wikki Tourists said the matter has been formally communicated to the NFF for its records and any action deemed necessary.
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The announcement comes at a difficult period for the club, which has just suffered relegation from the NPFL after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Rivers United in the penultimate game of the season.
Wikki appeared on course to keep their survival hopes alive when Imanu Bala restored their lead early in the second half, but two late goals from Rivers United condemned the Giant Elephants to an immediate return to the Nigeria National League after only one season in the top flight.
While the club did not directly link the AWOL issue to its struggles on the pitch, the revelation provides an insight into some of the challenges Wikki faced during a turbulent campaign that ultimately ended in relegation.
Despite the setback, club management insisted it remains committed to discipline, professionalism and rebuilding ahead of the new season.
“As preparations intensify for the upcoming football season, all players and officials are expected to uphold the values, standards and regulations of the club,” the statement added.
Wikki also expressed appreciation to the Bauchi State Government, supporters, partners and stakeholders for their continued backing during what has been a challenging period for the former NPFL side.
