NPFL: NFF suspends two referees over disallowed Kwara United goal

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has suspended two officials, referee Abdulrasheed Jimoh and assistant referee Adamu Zakari, over a controversial decision that disallowed a Kwara United goal in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match against Enugu Rangers. The suspension was ordered by the NFF Refereeing Development Committee following the match held at the Awka Township Stadium in Anambra State on Sunday.

Rangers, the current league champions and leaders, emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, thanks to a goal by Victor Chimezie in the 40th minute. Kwara United thought they equalized in the 78th minute when Alex Jerry scored, but the goal was ruled out after the second assistant referee raised his flag for an infringement. The disallowed goal sparked controversy after footage circulated online, prompting questions about the officials' decision.

The NPFL confirmed the suspension via its X handle, stating that the officials have been indefinitely suspended for what the committee described as the cancellation of a "validly scored goal." The indefinite suspension means the officials will not receive match assignments until further notice. The decision underscores the league's commitment to maintaining officiating standards and emphasizes the importance of applying the Laws of the Game correctly, especially in crucial match situations.