By Shehu Adamu
One of Nigeria’s most recognizable football teams, Kano Pillars Football Club, has made news once more, this time due to the suspension of Coach Ogenyi Evans, their technical adviser, and Ahmed Garba, also known as “Yaro Yaro,” his assistant.
The club’s administration made the announcement in the midst of a run of unsatisfactory 2025–2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) performances, and it has generated discussion among football fans.
Many are now questioning whether this suspension is actually the answer to the team’s problems or if it is merely a temporary fix for more serious issues.
BACKGROUND TO THE SUSPENSION: Kano Pillars entered the new NPFL season with high expectations after rebuilding their squad and promising fans a stronger campaign. However, a series of poor performances, including unexpected home draws and away defeats — quickly turned optimism into frustration. Supporters voiced their anger on media and social media and at match venues, demanding immediate changes.
In response, the club’s management announced the suspension of Technical Adviser Coach Ogennyi and his Assistant Yaro Yaro, citing the team’s lack of tactical discipline, poor motivation, and unsatisfactory results. An interim coaching crew was appointed to take charge pending further review.
THE CASE FOR THE SUSPENSION: Supporters of the management’s decision argue that the suspension was a necessary as a wake-up call. Here are some key points in favor:
- ACCOUNTABILITY AND STANDARDS: Football, like any professional enterprise, thrives on accountability. When results fail to meet expectations, leadership must take responsibility. Suspending the coaches sends a strong message that underperformance will not be tolerated — no matter how respected or experienced the individuals involved are.
- RESTORING TEAM DISCIPLINE: Reports suggest growing indiscipline and low morale among players. Sometimes, when the coaching bench loses control of the dressing room, management intervention becomes inevitable. A temporary leadership shake-up could help reset the team’s mentality and restore order.
- A CHANCE FOR FRESH IDEAS: A change in the technical bench can inject fresh tactics and motivation. An interim coach might approach matches differently — perhaps focusing on solid defense, better fitness, or sharper attacking transitions; leading to improved short-term results.
- REASSURING THE FANS: Kano Pillars have one of the most passionate fan bases in Nigerian football. Taking visible action reassures supporters that the management is listening and determined to revive the club’s fortunes.
THE CASE AGAINST THE SUSPENSION: However, critics view the move as reactionary; more about appeasing angry fans than solving real problems. Their arguments include:
- SHORT-TERM THINKING: Frequent changes in the technical bench have been a recurring issue at Kano Pillars. Stability is key in football; constant disruptions prevent the development of a clear identity or playing philosophy.
- DEEPER STRUCTURAL PROBLE: The team’s struggles may not lie solely with the coaches. Player recruitment, welfare, and infrastructure often play bigger roles. If these issues remain unaddressed, even a new coach will face the same challenges.
- PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT ON PLAYERS: Sudden suspensions can unsettle players, creating uncertainty about the club’s direction. Confidence is fragile in football, and instability can lead to even worse performances on the pitch.
- REPUTATION AND CONTINUITY: Sadly, suspending both the Technical Adviser and his assistant at once removes continuity in leadership. It also risks damaging the club’s image, making it harder to attract top coaching talent in the future.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
For a club of Kano Pillars’ stature, the question goes beyond one suspension. The real issue is whether the club has a long-term football strategy.
Management must decide whether they are building a sustainable system — one with clear youth development, tactical identity, proper resource allocation, or simply reacting to every poor result.
If the suspension is part of a broader reform that includes performance evaluation, better player motivation, and strategic planning, then it could indeed mark the beginning of a turnaround. But if it ends with another quick appointment and no deeper change, the same cycle of poor results and fan frustration will continue.
CONCLUSION: The Technical Adviser and his Assistant’s suspension might offer some temporary respite, but it is not a comprehensive fix.
Only by tackling the underlying causes of poor performance—from player development and tactical consistency to more robust management structures—will Kano Pillars make real progress.
In the end, what the club needs most is stability, accountability, and a clear long-term vision. If this suspension becomes the catalyst for genuine reform, it might be remembered as a turning point. If not, it will go down as just another chapter in the ongoing story of unfulfilled potential for one of Nigeria’s greatest football clubs.
Shehu Adamu was theFormer Media Officer, Kano Pillars fc, Former Board Membet, Kano Pillars fc, Former Member Kano Statr Football Association, K.S.F.A and ex-Assistant Secretary/Secretary, Sports Writers Association, SWAN, Kano Chapter
