The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has warned clubs’ coaches and other officials to stick to acceptable standards when conveying grievances over match officiating and desist from making disparaging public comments about the NPFL.
Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Nigerian top-flight, Dr Ayo Abdulrahman, in a memo to all the clubs, said the warning was necessary to protect the brand and avoid acts capable of driving away partnership interests.
The memo stated: “Warning against disparaging statements by club coaches and officials drew the attention of all clubs’ leadership to extant provisions of the Frameworks and Rules on incendiary public statements capable of bringing the league to disrepute.
“This has become necessary as the 2026/27 season progresses and with particular reference to a trending video interview featuring the Sporting Lagos FC coach, Jeffery Buter, which questioned the integrity of the centre referee at the end of the Matchday 6 encounter in Lagos against Barau FC.”
Abdulrahman also reminded club officials that official channels exist for communicating grievances about officiating issues to the Secretariat.
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“All clubs are hereby reminded of Appendix B, Rule 7 and Section A, Rule 5.5.2 of the NPFL Framework and Rules 2026/2027, which prohibit public criticism and disparaging statements against the League and its officials by players, club coaches and officials,” the memo added.
He admonished clubs to strictly ensure that their coaches, managers and officials refrain from making statements capable of bringing the League and its match officials into disrepute.
“Any further breach will attract appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the NPFL Framework and Rules,” he added.
Rangers, Abia Warriors clash in South-East derby
The Awka City Stadium, adopted as the home ground of Enugu Rangers, will be agog this weekend as the league leaders play host to Abia Warriors.
The South-East derby is expected to be accompanied by the fireworks associated with derbies.
For coach Imama Amakpakabo-tutored Warriors, this will be a difficult task against a Rangers team still basking in the euphoria of Wednesday’s away win over Warri Wolves.
Rangers’ gaffer, Fidelis Ilechukwu, who knows what derbies hold, will definitely fire up his lads not to let down their guard as they hope to maintain their momentum with a win over the visitors.
In Aba, Enyimba FC will aim to sustain their newfound form as they welcome Plateau United of Jos.
The Peoples Elephants seem to have rediscovered their form after securing a point away to Kano Pillars, before a 4-2 win over Shooting Stars in a rescheduled match.
The Harmony Boys, Kwara United, will entertain Ranchers Bees in Ilorin, while Doma United, who are fast losing steam after a brilliant start, will hope to bounce back on home soil against Warri Wolves.
After two straight defeats to Warri Wolves and Enyimba, Shooting Stars will return home to face Nasarawa United, a match coach Salisu Yusuf needs to win back the hearts of the Oluyole Warriors followers.
Meanwhile, Kano Pillars will engage Sporting Lagos at the Sani Abacha Stadium, while Rivers United, who have since been in good form after their early exit from the CAF Champions League, look set for another triumphant outing at home against Ikorodu City.
