The Central Organising Committee of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, popularly known as the Prosperity Cup, has disqualified Larama FC and Merriment FC from the 2026 edition of the competition over breaches of registration rules.
The decision was announced in a statement signed by the Tournament Director, Ebi Avi, who explained that both teams failed to submit completed registration forms and players’ licences before the official deadline.
According to the organisers, the affected teams, both from Ekeremor Local Government Area in Bayelsa State, violated the tournament’s regulations by returning their documents well after the competition had commenced.
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The committee cited Article VI, Section 1, Sub-section 1(b) of the competition rules, which mandates that all teams must complete and submit registration materials, including licences, within the stipulated timeframe or risk disqualification.
Despite repeated reminders from tournament officials, the teams reportedly delayed compliance until two weeks after the tournament had already begun, prompting the enforcement of disciplinary measures.
The Prosperity Cup remains one of Nigeria’s largest grassroots football competitions, attracting teams from across the state and serving as a platform for talent discovery and youth development.
Avi urged participating teams to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations of the competition, warning that any conduct capable of undermining the integrity of the tournament would not be tolerated.
The disqualification underscores the organisers’ commitment to maintaining discipline and fairness as the 2026 edition of the Prosperity Cup progresses.
