NWFL punishes Ekiti Queens over refs assault News

Navigation: Home / News / News / NWFL punishes Ekiti Queens over refs assault

NWFL punishes Ekiti Queens over refs assault

By Daily Sports Nigeria on December 12, 2025

The Nigeria Women’s Football League has imposed a fine of N2.5m and a three-game ban to a neutral venue on Ekiti Queens following the assault on match officials during their home fixture against Edo Queens in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

A viral video from the aftermath of the match showed security personnel shielding the officials as home fans hurled projectiles in protest of their team’s 1-0 defeat. Atume Doosuur’s 67th-minute strike sealed the victory for the visitors.

After reviewing official reports and video evidence, the NWFL found Ekiti Queens guilty of multiple violations, including failure to provide adequate security, failure to control supporters, and creating an unsafe environment that resulted in the attack on officials.

As part of the sanctions, Ekiti Queens were fined a total of N2.5m for the various infractions. The league body also directed the club to play their next three home matches at a neutral venue, the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.

In a statement issued by the NWFL Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, condemned the incident and reaffirmed the organisation’s uncompromising stance on safety and professionalism.

“The assault on our match officials in Ado-Ekiti is completely unacceptable and a gross breach of NWFL regulations,” Shabi said.

“The NWFL wishes reiterate that the safety of referees is paramount. Violence, intimidation, or any behaviour that undermines the integrity of the league will attract the strongest possible sanctions.”

Shabi further emphasised that the penalties are intended as a deterrent to clubs across the league.

“The NWFL will continue to enforce strict standards to protect match officials and maintain order at all centres. An attack on a referee is an attack on the league itself,” she said.

“Clubs must ensure full compliance with our safety and conduct regulations.”

Match-day three of the Nigeria women’s topflight concluded on Thursday, with Adamawa Queens and FC Robo leading their respective groups.

Source Punch Ng

Posted December 12, 2025