NFF Disciplinary Committee Imposes Sanctions on Clubs and Referee
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Disciplinary Committee has taken decisive action by imposing fines and other significant sanctions on multiple football clubs and a referee. This follows thorough investigations into various incidents that occurred during recent matches in the Nigeria National League (NNL) and the Nigeria Premier League (NPFL). The committee convened on March 3, 2026, to review protests and address breaches of league regulations.
Gombe United vs. Jigawa Golden Stars Incident
In one notable case, the committee examined a protest filed by Gombe United FC regarding their match against Jigawa Golden Stars FC on December 21, 2025, at the Pantami Stadium. It was determined that the centre referee initially awarded a goal kick during the 90+4 minute. However, supporters of the home team invaded the pitch, pressuring the referee to change the decision to a penalty kick, which constitutes a clear violation of league rules.
Further investigation revealed that the referee submitted two conflicting reports on the incident, and allegations of acting under duress could not be substantiated. In response to the penalty decision, players of Jigawa Golden Stars refused to continue the match. As a result, Gombe United were fined N1 million for crowd encroachment, while the centre referee, Terwase Chia, was suspended for the remainder of the season due to professional misconduct. Jigawa Golden Stars were fined N500,000 for abandoning the match, and the game was officially declared concluded with a 0–0 result.
Wikki Tourist FC and Katsina United FC Ruling
Another ruling involved a protest from the match between Wikki Tourist FC and Katsina United FC on February 8, 2026, at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium. Investigations showed that Wikki Tourists failed to provide adequate security, allowing unauthorized individuals into restricted areas. Additionally, supporters were found to have thrown stones onto the field, posing a safety risk.
The committee upheld a N2 million fine for inadequate security and imposed additional fines of N1 million each for unsporting conduct and throwing dangerous objects. It also modified an earlier sanction by reducing a requirement for the club to move its home matches to Jos to a five-match stadium ban, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures.
Kwara United FC Sanctions
Similarly, Kwara United FC faced sanctions following crowd disturbances during their match against Rivers United FC on February 18, 2026, at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl Stadium. The committee fined the club N2 million for poor security and N1 million for failing to control supporters. An additional N2 million was imposed as compensation for damages and medical treatment of match officials and visiting team members.
In a significant penalty, the club was also subjected to a three-point and three-goal deduction in the league standings and handed a five-match stadium ban. These measures aim to deter future misconduct and uphold the integrity of the sport.
The NFF Disciplinary Committee's actions underscore a commitment to enforcing regulations and maintaining fair play in Nigerian football. By addressing these incidents promptly, the committee seeks to prevent similar occurrences and ensure a safe environment for players, officials, and fans alike.
