NFF Suspends Three Referees Indefinitely Over Controversial Decisions in NPFL Matches
By Mustapha Salisu
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has placed three referees on indefinite suspension following controversial officiating decisions during Match Day 8 fixtures of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) played on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
In a statement signed by Mohammed Ameenu, on behalf of the Chairman, NFF Refereeing Development Committee, the affected officials are Mohammed B. Tuta (Adamawa), Ben Japhet (Benue), and Ikechukwu Taiwo (Rivers).
According to the NFF, Tuta and Japhet were suspended for actions deemed “outside the provisions of the Laws of the Game” during the encounter between Kano Pillars FC and Shooting Stars Sports Club, which the committee said brought the game into disrepute.
Similarly, referee Ikechukwu Taiwo was sanctioned for awarding what the committee described as an “unjustified penalty” in the fixture between Nasarawa United and Rangers International FC.
The statement noted that the suspensions take immediate effect, barring the officials from participating in any league or other football matches as referees or match officials.
The letter, addressed to the affected referees through their respective state football associations, was also copied to the President of the NFF, the General Secretary, and the Chairman/COO of the NPFL.
The NFF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism and integrity in Nigerian football, emphasizing that erring officials would face disciplinary measures to protect the credibility of the league.
