The General Manager of Crown Football Club, Ogbomoso, Mr. Olamide Olusanjo Ilupeju, has clarified that the club is not owing its players salaries or bonuses following the conclusion of the first stanza of the Nigeria National League (NNL).
Speaking during an online interview with online news platform NewsDirect247 on Friday, January 16, 2026, Ilupeju attributed the club’s financial stability to the support received from the Oyo State Government under Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, as well as the Honorable Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke.
“We want to sincerely thank the Governor of Oyo State and the Honorable Commissioner for their immense support to Crown FC because we do not owe our players salaries or bonuses at all,” Ilupeju said.
The Crown FC GM noted that the departure of former head coach Deji Ayeni disrupted the team’s rhythm, adding that poor officiating during the first round of the league also negatively affected the club’s performances.
“Firstly, the officiating in the first round was very poor, and it really affected our games,” he stated.
Ilupeju further revealed that the club has since appointed Coach Fatai Osho, who is currently in charge of recruiting new players to bring stability and strengthen the squad.
“After Ayeni left, we hired Coach Fatai Osho, and he is now responsible for recruiting new players,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the General Manager of the club expressed appreciation to the fans and supporters of Crown FC, particularly the people of Ogbomoso, for standing by the team during challenging moments. He urged them to continue their unwavering support as the club pushes for improved results in the league.
Crown FC’s most recent outing ended in a 1–0 defeat to Sunshine Stars.
The Ogbomoso-based side currently sits third on the Conference A table with 13 points, 3 adfrit of Inter Lagos who are the summit with 16 points in Nigeria’s second-tier league.
