The Nigeria National League (NNL) has called upon the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA) to thoroughly evaluate the performance of Akachukwu Igwebuike during the Super Eight promotion playoff.
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Igwebuike officiated the NNL Super Eight Northern Conference final group match between DMD and EFCC at the Augustine Okocha Stadium in Ogwashi-Uku on Wednesday.
Criticism arose regarding Igwebuike’s officiating, with concerns raised about questionable calls and the issuance of numerous yellow cards, which allegedly favored one of the teams.
Furthermore, Igwebuike was accused of awarding a potentially dubious penalty, which was subsequently missed as the ball sailed over the crossbar.
In light of these circumstances, the NNL has urged the NRA to review the conduct of the match official during the game, as well as assess the actions taken before, during, and after the match.
Mr. Emmanuel Adesanya, the NNL Head of Operations, emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive appraisal of the referees’ behavior on the field.
This measure aims to address the speculations surrounding the match officials and provide clarity regarding their performance.
In addition to Akachukwu Igwebuike, other match officials who have faced allegations of misconduct include Assistant referees Ayodeji Adebiyi and Charway Wilfred, as well as the fourth official, Promise Amadi.
The NNL recognizes the significance of fair and unbiased officiating in football matches. By requesting a thorough review of the referee’s performance, the league aims to ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of the game.
The NRA’s assessment will shed light on the events that unfolded during the match, offering an opportunity to address any concerns raised and reaffirm the credibility of the referees involved.
As the NNL awaits the NRA’s evaluation, stakeholders and fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of this review process.
The NNL remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and fair play within Nigerian football, promoting an environment where matches are officiated without bias and with the utmost integrity.
