NPFL: Two Referees Indefinitely Suspended as NFF Cracks Down Again
The NFF Referees Committee has handed indefinite suspensions to two referees following questionable decisions in Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matches.
The announcement, contained in a release signed by Mohammad Ameenu, Secretary of the NFF Referees Committee, stated that the sanctions are aimed at curbing misconduct by match officials and preserving the integrity of the league.
The first case involved Emmanuel Ocheme (FCT), who officiated the NPFL Matchday 19 fixture between Ikorodu City FC and Remo Stars FC. According to the committee, Ocheme failed to award a penalty after a clear handball by a defending player, a decision deemed inconsistent with the Laws of the Game. He has been suspended indefinitely from all league and football matches.
The second referee, Moukhtar Bashir (KN), was in charge of the NPFL MD 19 match between Rivers United FC and Rangers International FC. Bashir disallowed a goal following a misjudged throw-in by the goalkeeper. After reviewing video evidence, the committee found no justification for the decision, ruling it as a breach of the Laws of the Game. He too has been suspended indefinitely.
The NFF Referees Committee stressed that these measures are part of ongoing efforts to ensure fairness and accountability in Nigerian football.
