NPFL: NFF confirms step down of Kwara vs Bayelsa match referees

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Refereeing Development Unit has suspended two referees in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The two referees from Lagos state; Ridwan Ayeni and Abubakar Jimoh have been stepped down indefinitely from league games.

According to a letter by the NFF Refereeing Development Unit dated February 17, 2025, the duo have been informed of their stepping down.

“Reference to your decisions that adversely affects not only the outcome of the match between Kwara United FC and Bayelsa United FC played on Sunday, 15th February, 2025 wherein you ignored a glaring penalty incident that fulfilled all requirement s of foul (holding/pulling) within the provisions of the Laws of the Game,” the letter read.

“Moreso, the active Assistant Referee failed in his duty to assist his Referee in the situation as the incident materialized after a counter-attack in his area.

“Your actions did not only negatively affect the outcome of the match but equally br ings the game to disrepute.

“I am therefore, directed to notify both of you that you have been stepped down indefinitely and with immediate effect from the league.”

The game ended 1-0 in favour of Kwara United in Ilorin with Wasiu Jimoh scoring the winning goal in the 78th minute.

This decision is coming after the suspension of referees in charge of Heartland FC match against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC).