Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the incumbent president of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has expressed optimism that live coverage of matches in the country’s domestic league will keep referees in check.
It is reported that the NFF President, Gusau charged referees who officiate matches in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) to uphold a high integrity in their duties, since most matches will now be broadcast live on television.
The report has it that he made this statement at a ceremony in which 30 Nigerian referees were decorated with badges to formally confirm their global grading by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA).
From the NFF’s communication department, the press statement further disclosed that Gusau stressed that misconduct will not be concealed and any referee who performs poorly would be stripped of the badge.
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“Our league matches are now being televised. For instance, the game between Shooting Stars and Warri Wolves was broadcast live on approximately eleven television stations.
“There is no hiding place now. Matches will be televised live, and any referee who conducts himself improperly will have his or her badge revoked without exception. We must take this very seriously.
“We intend to increase this coverage to thirty stations by the end of the season, ensuring that your officiating will be visible worldwide,” Gusau added with a tone of affirmation.
In addition, any complaints about the officiating referees will henceforth be submitted immediately after the match, with the erring arbiter directed to submit his/her badge and uniforms, with no appeal for all disciplinary action.
Gusau reiterated, “Do not assume anyone will intercede on your behalf. If you misbehave, you should voluntarily relinquish your uniform, as you will no longer be part of the refereeing community.
“This is the decision we have made, and we will enforce it strictly. Our goal is to continually enhance the league’s welfare, but poor officiating is capable of scaring away prospective sponsors.
“We have secured a deal with a television station that will improve the league’s visibility across the country through live broadcasts, provided the states have television stations capable of airing matches.”
