NPFL: NFF suspends two match officials indefinitely over disallowed Kwara United goal

The controversy surrounding Enugu Rangers 1-0 victory over Kwara United has taken a new turn, with the Nigeria Football Federation imposing sanctions on two match officials.

NFF suspends referee and assistant indefinitely

Referee Abdulrasheed Jimoh and assistant referee Adamu Zakari have been suspended indefinitely by the NFF Refereeing Development Committee following the controversial disallowance of a Kwara United goal against Enugu Rangers.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) announced the decision, stating that the officials were sanctioned over what the committee described as the cancellation of a "validly scored goal".

The incident occurred during Sunday's Matchday 12 fixture at the Awka Township Stadium, where Rangers secured a 1-0 victory through Victor Chimezie's 40th-minute goal.

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Jerry Alex's effort sparks controversy

Kwara United thought they had equalised in the 78th minute when substitute Jerry Alex, who evaded Rangers defender Philip Clement, poked the ball into the net following a long throw-in.

The assistant referee had initially raised his flag for an alleged foul throw but lowered it, allowing play to continue. After the goal was scored, however, he drew the referee's attention to the incident, leading to the effort being disallowed.

The decision caused protests during the encounter, with Kwara United left frustrated as they searched unsuccessfully for an equaliser.

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