The Nigeria Football Referees Association (NFRA) has taken decisive measures in response to poor officiating during the NNL24 (Matchday 1) and NWFL-Premiership (Matchday 2).
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Following incidents of arbitrary decisions that deviated from the Laws of the Game, the NFRA has announced the outright stepping down of certain referees and assistant referees from all officiating activities.
The affected officials include:
i. Okolosi Isaiah Owohede (ED)
– Referee, SmartCity FC vs Edel FC (NNL Matchday 1).
ii. Johnson Ikechukwu R. (RV)
– AR1, Giant Brillars vs Ikorodu United (NNL Matchday 1).
iii. Ogben Kindek (CR)
iv. Ayem Joy (BN)
– Referee, Bayelsa Queens vs Ekiti Queens (NWFL Matchday 2).
– Referee, Nasarawa Amazons vs Heartland Queens (NWFL Matchday 2).
The Nigeria Football Referees Association emphasized that the actions and decisions displayed by these referees and assistant referees demonstrated a clear disregard for the Laws of the Game, indicating a level of impunity that the Refereeing Development Committee/Department of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will not tolerate.
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The committee has taken a stern stance against misconduct that tarnishes the reputation of the game and refereeing in general.
The referees and assistant referees across all levels of the league system have been duly warned to prioritize adherence to the Laws of the Game over personal opinions or interests.
The NFRA’s move underscores a commitment to maintaining the integrity of officiating in Nigerian football and ensuring that the highest standards are upheld.
In light of these developments, the NFRA calls for a renewed dedication to fair and just officiating, reminding all referees and assistant referees of their responsibility to contribute positively to the sport.
The disciplinary actions taken aim to reinforce the importance of upholding the principles and standards that govern the beautiful game.
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