Wikki Tourists’ Aliyu Suspended For Rivers United Clash

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has officially upheld the automatic suspension of Wikki Tourists’ defender Abubakar Aliyu, ruling him out of the club’s crucial Matchday 37 fixture against Rivers United.

Aliyu’s suspension comes as a direct consequence of reaching the league’s threshold for yellow cards. The centre-back has now been booked five times this season, with his most recent caution coming during Wikki Tourists’ 3–1 away loss to Ikorodu City on Tuesday.

That fifth yellow triggered an automatic one-match ban under NPFL regulations.

As a result, the defender often a key figure in the Bauchi Elephants’ backline will be unavailable for selection when his team faces Rivers United on Sunday. The match carries significant weight for both sides as the season approaches its final stretch.

The league body has also moved to publicly back the match officials involved in the Ikorodu City game. Despite strong criticism from Wikki Tourists’ camp over certain decisions, the NPFL affirmed that centre referee Joseph Ogabor acted within his powers.

The league stressed that Ogabor’s handling of the match—including the booking that led to Aliyu’s fifth yellow—was consistent with the Laws of the Game.

Official communication of the suspension was sent to Wikki Tourists in a statement signed on behalf of the Chief Operating Officer by Stanley Ike-Richard.

The statement reminded the club that the referee has full authority to enforce all rules and regulations during any match to which he is appointed. No appeal or revision of the suspension has been entertained, meaning Aliyu will definitely sit out the upcoming fixture.

Wikki Tourists will now have to adjust their defensive setup for what promises to be a challenging encounter against Rivers United, a side known for its attacking prowess.

The absence of their seasoned defender could prove costly as Bauchi Elephants fight to improve their standing in the NPFL table.