A decisive move have been taken by the Nigerian National League (NNL) to expell the referee responsible for a contentious decision during the match between Jigawa Golden Stars and Sporting Supreme.

The decision in question involved a goal awarded to Jigawa Golden Stars player, who appeared to have used his hands to throw the ball into the opponent’s net, Footballrover reports.

The referees implicated in the incident are as follows:

1. Central Referee: Zaharadeen Nasiru, Grade 1 from Katsina State.
2. Assistant Referee 1: Alh Uba Usman, Grade 1 from Borno State.
3. Assistant Referee 2: Auwalu Usman Jaman, Grade 1 from Borno State.
4. Fourth Official: Rabiu Mohd from Jigawa State.

The expulsion was communicated through a memo from the NFF Refereeing Development Unit, the body responsible for overseeing the performance and conduct of referees.

In front of the Referee?! When this isn't a Dunk contest in Basketball or Volleyball game.

Nigerian league ehn.???? pic.twitter.com/c3ih9RjFvK

— Uncle Dan ????????️???????????? (@daniel_oriloye) April 6, 2024

The memo, signed by Mohammed Ameenu on behalf of the Chairman of the NFF Referees’ Committee, cited the referee’s actions as detrimental to the integrity of both refereeing and football in Nigeria.

The letter stated:

“In view of the serious nature of the decisions taken in your week 17 match involving Jigawa Golden Stars FC and Sporting Supreme FC played in Dutse wherein your actions brought Refereeing and the game in Nigeria into disrepute, I am directed to notify you that you have been expelled with immediate effect from the league and refereeing generally.”

This swift action was taken to prove the NNL and NFF’s continued commitment to maintaining the best possible standards of sportsmanship and fairness in Nigerian football.

Such action was very necessary in order to preserve the integrity and reputation of Nigerian football on all levels.

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