The Akure-based side has struggled throughout the 2024/25 season, with inconsistent performances leaving them stuck in the relegation zone.
A four-game winless streak has heightened fears of relegation, with the team currently sitting 19th in the league table, having gathered just 34 points from 31 matches.
Nevertheless, the club legend - who hung up his boots just last season - remains optimistic, insisting that all hope is not lost, as the team has faced similar challenges in the past.
"It’s painful to see the team in this mess, but let’s be honest - it’s not surprising. The performances this season have been well below standard, and the results reflect that," Abe told Flashscore.
"We’re 19th because we haven’t done enough, plain and simple. Sentiment won’t save us. If things don’t change fast, relegation is inevitable.
"Relegation to the National League would be a huge disaster, and we must fight to avoid that outcome at all costs.
"Personally, I’m still hopeful we can avoid relegation, as we’ve been in this situation the last four seasons and managed to get out each time. However, we can’t keep going down this path. Change is needed urgently."
After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, the Owena Whales seemed ready to compete.
Unfortunately, a series of poor results led to the resignation of coach Kennedy Boboye, who cited interference from the club’s management.
Veteran tactician Abubakar Bala was appointed as the replacement, but little changed as the situation continued to deteriorate for the 2012 CAF Champions League semi-finalists.
Asked what has gone wrong with the team, the former Nigeria youth international continued: "A lot is really wrong, and all that did not start today.
"As a former captain, I don’t believe in blaming anyone. I focus on solutions, not problems.
"The management knows what needs to be done if they truly want the club to return to its glory days. It’s all about making the right decisions moving forward.
"I would be wrong to fault the quality of the players. From what I've seen, they aren't playing badly. The fans are also doing their part, but there’s still something missing.
"We need a change in approach to turn things around and get back on track."
Similar to Abe, coach Bala had assured that his team would avoid relegation.
"Since the commencement of the second round, we haven’t got any wins on the road, and we believe the boys are making amends for weaknesses in our away matches," he told the media, as per Punch.
"We are working hard on our concentration and finishing. We scored four goals in our last home game. That way, we will get more points home and away, and after two or three more games, we will be out of the red zone."
Sunshine Stars will look to break their four-match winless streak as they travel to Lobi Stars on Sunday afternoon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
Lobi Stars seem headed for relegation, sitting at the bottom of the NPFL table with just 23 points from 30 matches.
They’ve failed to win any of their last 13 games in the Nigerian topflight.
