The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has suspended three referees from officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following a series of controversial calls that have sparked widespread criticism from clubs and fans alike.
The referees — Mohammed B. Tuta, Ben Japhet, and Ikechukwu Taiwo — were sanctioned by the Referee Development Committee after their performances during Matchday 8 fixtures were deemed below acceptable professional standards.
In a statement released by the committee’s secretary, Ameenu Mohammed, the NFF noted that Tuta and Japhet’s officiating during the Kano Pillars vs Shooting Stars game “fell short of professional standards.” The match, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, descended into chaos as angry spectators protested against what they perceived as biased officiating.
Similarly, Referee Ikechukwu Taiwo, who officiated the Nasarawa United vs Rangers encounter, was found guilty of awarding an “unjustified penalty” and has also been suspended.
The NFF confirmed that all three referees have been placed on indefinite suspension, pending further review and retraining. The committee reiterated its commitment to upholding fairness and integrity in the NPFL, warning that any referee found to compromise match standards will face strict disciplinary action.
“Any referee found compromising match standards will face severe consequences,” the statement read.
Barau FC Names Rabi’u Tata as Interim Technical Adviser
In a related development, Barau FC has appointed Rabi’u Tata as interim Technical Adviser following the temporary exit of Ladan Bosso, who stepped aside due to family reasons.
The club’s Media Director, Ahmad Hamisu Gwale, confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, adding that preparations are in full swing ahead of Barau FC’s Matchday 9 clash against Kano Pillars scheduled for this Sunday.
Gwale also noted that further details regarding the club’s technical restructuring will be announced in the coming days as Barau FC aims to maintain stability during this transition period.
