Coach Bassey Resigns From Ranchers Bees, Cites Security Risks and Poor Welfare

Coach Bassey Resigns From Ranchers Bees, Cites Security Risks and Poor Welfare

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso 

The Head Coach of Ranchers Bees Football Club, Kaduna, Patrick Bassey tendered his resignation with immediate effect, citing deep-seated concerns over security lapses, poor welfare conditions and persistent interference in technical matters by the club’s management.

In a detailed resignation letter dated 2nd December 2025 and addressed to the Chairman of the club, the coach expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that the team’s current position second on the league table after three matches is proof of the progress made under his leadership. However, he stressed that the working environment had become “unprofessional and intolerable,” threatening both his safety and the club’s promotion ambitions.

Security Concerns: “A Dangerous and Unprofessional Precedent”

The coach raised alarm over what he described as the management’s “insensitivity to security matters,” citing repeated instructions for the team to embark on night travels after away fixtures and from their new home ground in Minna, Niger State an act he labelled unsafe and unacceptable.

He further alleged threats to his life from certain supporters both before and after matches, adding that the management had, at various times, “instigated supporters to harass the head coach,” a situation he said could no longer be ignored.

Poor Welfare and Working Conditions

The resignation letter also highlighted the club’s failure to provide basic welfare provisions for both players and officials. According to him, the absence of a camp has made player monitoring difficult, while the lack of essential playing equipment, including football boots, undermines professional performance expectations.

He described the feeding arrangement as “absurd,” revealing that the team was often forced to rely on pre-packaged meals provided by management while preparing for league matches. He also disclosed that agreed-upon benefits, such as mobility for the head coach, were never fulfilled.

In one instance, he noted discriminatory treatment during a league match in Kebbi, where players were given ₦10,000 each for feeding while he received only ₦5,000. The coach condemned the practice of equating his bonus payments with those of the players, calling it unprofessional.

Technical Interference: “A Distraction to Team Progress”

Another major issue cited was consistent interference by the club’s management in technical decisions. The coach stated that he had no full control of the dressing room, as officials frequently walked in during team talks and even disrupted substitution plans during matches.

He added that such disruptions made it difficult to execute a smooth coaching schedule, ultimately affecting team performance and morale.

“Impossible to Continue”

While reaffirming his respect for the club’s fans and acknowledging their passion, the coach concluded that the hostile work environment, combined with persistent administrative shortcomings, made it impossible to continue in his role.

His resignation is expected to spark wide conversation within Kaduna’s football community, especially given Ranchers Bees' promising start to the season. The club has yet to issue an official response to the development.