NPFL Coaches, Officials Face Sanctions Over Disparaging Comments

Coaches and officials of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs risk disciplinary sanctions for making disparaging public comments about the league and its match officials.

The warning was contained in a memo issued to all EuroMatch-NPFL clubs by the league’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), Dr Ayo Abdulrahman, following growing concerns over public criticism of officiating.

Abdulrahman said the advisory was necessary to protect the image of the NPFL and prevent comments capable of undermining the league or discouraging potential partners.

Titled “Warning Against Disparaging Statements by Club Coaches and Officials,” the memo reminded clubs of provisions in the NPFL Framework and Rules governing public statements capable of bringing the competition into disrepute.

The memo specifically referred to a trending video interview involving Sporting Lagos coach Jeffery Buter after his side’s Matchday 6 encounter against Barau FC in Lagos.

According to the COO, the coach’s comments questioned the integrity of the centre referee during the match.

Abdulrahman reminded clubs that official channels exist for communicating grievances and complaints concerning match officiating to the NPFL Secretariat.

“All Clubs are hereby reminded of Appendix B, Rule 7 and Section A, Rule 5.5.2 of the NPFL Framework and Rules 2026/2027, which prohibit public criticism and disparaging statements against the League and its officials by players, club coaches and officials,” the memo stated.

The NPFL boss urged club managements to ensure that their coaches, managers and other officials refrain from making statements capable of bringing the league or its match officials into disrepute.

He further warned that breaches would attract disciplinary measures in accordance with the league’s rules.

“Any further breach will attract appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the NPFL Framework and Rules,” Abdulrahman said.

The warning comes as the 2026/27 NPFL season enters its early stages, with clubs being encouraged to channel complaints over officiating through the established procedures rather than through public statements.