Nigeria Football Referees’ Association Condemns Attack on Officials

The Nigeria Football Referees’ Association (NFRA) has issued a strong condemnation following a physical assault on match officials that occurred after the 2026 President’s Federation Cup semi-final match between Nasarawa United and Ikorodu City. The incident took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, Edo State, on Wednesday, June 17, immediately after the match concluded with a penalty shootout.

According to reports received by the NFRA, tensions escalated rapidly as the officials headed towards the tunnel. Two Nasarawa United players, whose identities have not been disclosed, along with a member of the club’s medical team, are alleged to have confronted and physically attacked the officiating crew. The Fourth Official reportedly sustained injuries, and their communication equipment, stopwatch, and official attire were damaged. The center referee's uniform was also allegedly torn during the altercation.

Kelechi Mejuobi, Acting President of the NFRA, expressed deep concern over the repeated attacks on referees across Nigerian football venues. He described the latest incident as unacceptable and harmful to the sport's development. Mejuobi urged football authorities to take firm action against those responsible and implement robust measures to ensure the safety of match officials.

In response, the NFRA has mandated that referees assigned to future games must confirm the presence of adequate security personnel before matches begin. Officials are instructed to notify relevant football bodies if security arrangements are insufficient. The association also appealed to all stakeholders in Nigerian football to prioritize the welfare of match officials, warning that it might refuse appointments involving teams with a history of assaults or avoid venues known for such incidents.

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The continued attacks on referees are a serious threat to the integrity of football and must not be tolerated. Those involved should be identified and punished accordingly to serve as a deterrent to others.