The Nationwide League One (NLO) has suspended four players and officials of Green Beret FC after a violent assault on a match referee during a league game.
According to The Independent Mirror, the incident occurred on May 2, 2025, at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, shortly after the final whistle of the match between Green Beret FC and Standard FC Kaduna. The referee was reportedly attacked by players and officials of Green Beret FC, resulting in physical injuries.
The attack violates Article 4.07(1) of the NLO rulebook, which prohibits any form of intimidation or harassment against match officials before, during, or after a game.
In response, the NLO has issued provisional sanctions and condemned the attack, while awaiting further investigation by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Disciplinary Committee.
NLO Chief Operating Officer, Olushola Ogunnowo, reaffirmed the league’s commitment to protecting referees and maintaining discipline across all fixtures.
The suspended individuals, according to the official match report, include:
- Alhassan Tofa
- Emmanuel Maidawa
- Major Aliyu Usman Akashe
- Officer Musa
Green Beret FC has also been fined ₦100,000, to be paid within 48 hours. The league emphasized that the disciplinary action aligns with its regulations and confirmed the club’s right to appeal.
0 Comments