1. BY TOM MOSES
   Following the ouster of Federation Cup title holders, Akwa United from the CAF Confederation Cup by Vita Club of the Republic of Congo, Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has sacked the board and management of the club.

The defeat of Akwa United last weekend at the Nest of Champions, Uyo, it was gathered, did not go down well with Governor Emmanuel hence, the sack of the former board and management which was headed by Mr. Nse Ube.

A statement endorsed by the state’s Information Commissioner, Mr Aniekan Umana made available to Sports Vanguard in Uyo yesterday also indicated that Governor Emmanuel has  appointed veteran Sports journalist and FIFA/CAF Match Commissioner, Mr. Paul Bassey as the head of the three months interim board.

It commended the previous board for its efforts that led to the club winning its first major domestic trophy and qualifying to represent the country in the continent.

It would be recalled that the ‘Promise Keepers’ only last weekend suffered a home defeat in the hands of the Congolese side after taking a one goal advantage in the first leg played in Point Noire.

Needing just a draw to get to the second round, United marksman Ubong Ekpai missed  a penalty in regulation time and after trailing to a second half goal, missed the last penalty kick with aggregate score standing at 7-6 in favour of the Point Noire based side.

United would now focus on the domestic league where they would face Heartland FC of Owerri in Uyo today in Match Day 4 of the Nigerian Professional Football League.