Former Shooting Stars head coach Nurudeen Aweroro has denied allegations that he collected money from players during his time at the club, insisting that anyone making such claims should provide evidence.
Aweroro left the Oluyole Warriors by mutual consent last Saturday after guiding the Ibadan club to third place in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, securing their first continental qualification in 27 years. NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
The coach’s departure also affected assistant coach Shakiru Lawal and team manager Tammy Tamuno, while the club prepares for its return to the CAF Confederation Cup, where they have been drawn against Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien.
Speaking on Yoruba sports programme Gbagede Ere Idaraya with Sola Aiyegbajeje in Ibadan, Aweroro strongly rejected the allegations.
“Any player who has said I used to take money from them should come forward with the evidence. If they are able to present any evidence, that means I am truly guilty,” Aweroro said.
He explained that while some players occasionally wanted to appreciate him financially, he never demanded money from them.
Aweroro cited Qamar Adegoke, who was struggling for goals at the time, saying he prayed for the striker and challenged him to score at least 10 goals. According to the coach, when Adegoke wanted to send him money, he instructed him to give it to the fans instead.
He also mentioned Alade Balogun, whom he brought from Ikorodu City, as another player who could confirm that he never requested financial favours from him.
“You see these players, there are some among them that I give money to, and there are some that I buy boots for.”
Aweroro also revealed that his time at Shooting Stars came with considerable pressure, despite achieving the club's objective of securing continental football.
The coach disclosed that he experienced a serious health scare during his time in charge and was advised by doctors to rest, but remained focused on achieving the club's target.
Meanwhile, Shooting Stars are reportedly considering former Rangers coach Imama Amapakabo for the vacant position. The 57-year-old, who guided Rangers to the NPFL title in 2016, is reportedly open to the move, although negotiations with Abia Warriors would still need to be concluded.
Former Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf is also believed to be among the leading candidates for the job.
Shooting Stars will begin their 2026/27 NPFL campaign against Inter Lagos in Ibadan on August 28 before turning their attention to their CAF Confederation Cup tie against CS Sfaxien.