The Nigeria Football Referees’ Association (NFRA) has called for improved security at Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match venues following recent incidents involving attacks on referees by club officials and supporters.
The association urged the NPFL organisers, state football associations and participating clubs to work together to create a safe environment that allows match officials to perform their duties without fear of intimidation or violence.
The call follows a series of incidents during and after league matches in which referees were reportedly subjected to unruly behaviour by supporters and club officials.
Condemning the attacks, NFRA Acting President, Sir Kelechi Mejuobi, said stakeholders must prioritise preventive measures rather than rely solely on sanctions after incidents have occurred.
Mejuobi commended the league organisers for their prompt intervention and the disciplinary measures imposed on teams found responsible for misconduct. However, he stressed that protecting match officials must remain a priority.
“While the association acknowledges the punishments meted to offending teams where referees are attacked, proactive measures to ensure protection of match officials should be sacrosanct,” he said.
“Let’s see what can be done to prevent the attacks on referees rather than punishment after the victims must have suffered harm and injuries after the action,” Mejuobi added.
The NFRA expressed hope that the sanctions imposed on offending clubs would serve as a deterrent, while calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of such incidents in Nigerian football.
The association also urged appointed match officials to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and officiate in accordance with the Laws of the Game and competition regulations.
It added that it was working with relevant authorities and exploring internal mechanisms to enhance referees’ safety before, during and after matches.
The statement was signed by Chukwudi Ejimofor, National Publicity Secretary of the Nigeria Football Referees’ Association.
