Shaita Angels FC President Benita Urey has publicly rejected the five-year ban imposed on her by the Liberia Football Association (LFA) Grievance and Disciplinary Committee, describing the ruling as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
In a statement released on Monday, Urey said the allegations of match manipulation are baseless, claiming the decision targets her due to her open support for presidential aspirant Cassell A. Kuoh. She emphasized that the ban is based on “mere speculation and gossip,” and that no evidence exists to substantiate claims that she ever attempted to influence match outcomes.
“As a young woman striving to make an impact in Liberian football, I refuse to be discouraged by such unfounded allegations,” Urey said. “I have never once communicated with any Paynesville FC player regarding match-fixing, as claimed by the FA. I will appeal this decision and pursue all necessary legal actions to defend my integrity and the reputation of opposition team leaders, who have become constant targets under this current football administration.”
Urey also criticized what she called double standards in the LFA’s disciplinary approach. She highlighted past matches where LISCR FC defeated Shaita FC 6–1 and lost to Freeport FC to save them from relegation, claiming no match-fixing investigations were launched in either instance. “Yet, in this case, the Committee has acted without evidence, further exposing the bias behind this decision,” she stated.
The Shaita Angels president reaffirmed her commitment to promoting transparency and development in Liberian football, vowing to continue supporting her city of Careysburg and empowering young footballers. She called out LFA President Mr. Raji, asserting that she will not be “controlled or silenced by anyone who believes football belongs to them alone.”
Urey concluded that she will take the matter to court and pursue all legal avenues to challenge the LFA’s ruling and defend her reputation.
This statement comes in the wake of widespread attention to the LFA’s disciplinary actions against Urey and Paynesville FC player Eugene Swen, who was also sanctioned for alleged involvement in match manipulation during the 2024/25 First Division League season.
