NLO slams Green Beret FC with two year ban over match officials assault
The Nationwide League One (NLO) has handed Green Beret FC a two-season suspension and imposed a series of heavy sanctions following the violent attack on match officials after their league fixture against Zamfara United in Katsina.
The incident occurred on Friday at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, where Green Beret FC suffered a 2-0 defeat after conceding two late goals. However, the result quickly became secondary as scenes of chaos unfolded after the final whistle.
Videos circulating on social media showed match officials fleeing for safety while being chased and assaulted by unidentified individuals allegedly linked to Green Beret FC. One official was seen receiving medical attention after sustaining injuries to his face, while reports also alleged that the referee was stabbed during the attack.
Reacting to the disturbing incident, the NLO moved swiftly to punish the club, describing the violence as a serious threat to the integrity and image of Nigerian football.
In a letter addressed to the Kaduna State Football Association, the league's Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Olushola Ogunnowo, condemned the attack in strong terms.
"It was with deep distress that we learned about the assault on the match officials, particularly witnessing the referee being left in a pool of his own blood. This level of violence is not only unacceptable but also tarnishes the integrity of our beautiful game of football," Ogunnowo stated.
He further noted that the incident was not an isolated case, referencing a similar occurrence involving the club during the previous season.
As part of the sanctions, the NLO ruled that Zamfara United's 2-0 victory would be upgraded to a 3-0 win, while Green Beret FC and all its officials have been suspended from participating in the league for the next two seasons.
The league body also directed the club to identify and produce the individual accused of stabbing the referee within 48 hours.
In addition, Green Beret FC has been fined a total of ₦1.5 million. The breakdown includes ₦1 million for violent conduct and ₦500,000 as compensation for the assaulted match officials. The club has been given seven days to settle the fines.
The latest sanctions underscore the NLO's determination to tackle violence in Nigerian football and reinforce the importance of protecting match officials, players, and stakeholders at all levels of the game.
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