NPFL Warns Coaches, Officials Against Discrediting Referees

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has warned club coaches and officials against making public statements that question the integrity or credibility of referees.

The warning was contained in a memo signed by the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr Ayo Abdulrahman, as the 2026/27 NPFL season progresses.

Abdulrahman reminded clubs that grievances concerning officiating must be communicated through the channels and procedures provided by the league. He said the measures were aimed at protecting the NPFL brand and preventing actions that could affect partnership interests.

The memo referenced a trending video interview involving Sporting Lagos coach Jeffery Buter, who questioned the integrity of the centre referee following his team’s Matchday 6 encounter against Barau FC in Lagos.

According to the NPFL, its Framework and Rules for the 2026/27 season prohibit players, coaches and club officials from publicly criticising or making disparaging statements about the league and its officials.

The league cited Appendix B, Rule 7 and Section A, Rule 5.5.2 of its 2026/27 Framework and Rules in reminding clubs of the restrictions.

The NPFL warned that any further breach of the provisions would attract appropriate disciplinary action in line with the league’s rules. Clubs have therefore been urged to follow the established procedures when raising concerns about officiating or other league matters.