A case of impartially and integrity of the referees handling the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 in Asaba has been raised by some officials of the teams participating in the competition to determine the four teams that will join the elite Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
It was gathered that some of the teams have expressed deep concern over reports emerging from Group A of the ongoing NNL Playoff, where some match officials are allegedly compromised and working in favour of certain teams.
In particular, serious allegations have been raised regarding one of the referees said to be an official of one of the teams.
The particular referee was dropped from the Wikki Tourists versus Doma United over perceived allegation of on the pay roll of one of the teams in Group A. The referee was alleged to one of the club’s coordinator, a direct violation of the principles of impartiality and fairness.
“This situation not only threatens the integrity of the ongoing competition but also casts a dark shadow over the credibility of the entire promotion process. Football thrives on fairness and equal opportunity, and any attempt to compromise these values undermines the hard work of clubs, players, and officials who are striving for excellence,” one of the officials lamented in a chat.
“We, therefore, call on the Nigeria National League (NNL) leadership and relevant authorities to urgently investigate these allegations, take appropriate disciplinary actions, and ensure that officiating is transparent, neutral, and in the true spirit of sportsmanship. The credibility of the Super 8 and the future of Nigerian football depends on it,” he claimed.
The source further accused the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of favouring one of the team.
“It appears the NFF is trying to give promotion ticket to a particular team at any cost. In this case there is no need to waste time for other clubs. If the rumour is true, this will tarnish the image of the NNL. We demand the NFF board maintain its integrity and allows fair officiating without bias. Allow all clubs to fight for the tickets on merit otherwise, we ‘ll conclude that this Super 8 is a business for the highest bidder,” the source concluded.