DECISIONS OF THE MEETING OF THE NIGERIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION (NFF) DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE HELD ON 12TH FEBRUARY, 2025 ON THE PROTEST LODGED BY BENDEL INSURANCE FC AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE NIGERIA PREMIER FOOTBALL LEAGUE (NPFL) ON THE MATCH PLAYED BETWEEN BENDEL INSURANCE FC VS. KANO PILLARS FC ON THE 11TH NOVEMBER, 2024 AT THE OGBE STADIUM, BENIN, EDO STATE

FINDINGS:

1. The Committee found that Bendel Insurance FC did not provide adequate and effective security during the match Day 11 fixture between Bendel Insurance FC vs. Kano Pillars FC in that some of their fans had access to the restricted areas.

2. That there was no evidence that the attack on match officials was grievous.

DECISIONS

Based on the above findings, the Committee decides as follows:

1. The Committee affirmed paragraphs a, b, c, d, and f of the decisions of the NPFL as contained in Form 16, Summary Jurisdiction Notice to Bendel Insurance FC dated 11th November, 2024.

2. The order in paragraph “e” deducting 3 points and 3 goals from the accrued points/goals of Bendel Insurance FC by the NPFL is hereby set aside, on the ground that the assault on the match officials was not grievous as provided in Rule C11 of the Frameworks and Rules of the NPFL.

3. That the above decisions are without prejudice to the right of appeal.

In attendance: Barr. J.B. C. Obikwelu (Chairman), Barr. Abdulrahman Abdulrahman (Vice Chairman), Barr. Mukhtar Ibrahim (Member), Barr. ‘Wole Ademoyegun (Member), Barr. Bello Galadi (Member) and Queen W. Otarakpo, Esq. (Secretary)

DECISIONS OF THE MEETING OF THE NIGERIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION (NFF) DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE HELD ON 12TH FEBRUARY, 2025 ON THE PROTEST LODGED BY PLATEAU UNITED FC AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE NIGERIA PREMIER FOOTBALL LEAGUE (NPFL) ON THE MATCH PLAYED BETWEEN PLATEAU UNITED FC VS. RANGERS INTERNATIONAL FC ON THE 10TH NOVEMBER, 2024 AT THE NEW JOS CITY STADIUM, JOS, PLATEAU STATE

FINDING:

The Committee adopts the entire findings of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) as contained in Form 16, Summary Jurisdiction Notice to Plateau United FC dated 11th November, 2024.

DECISIONS:

Based on the above finding, the Committee decides as follows:

1. The Committee affirmed paragraphs a – h of the decisions of the NPFL as contained in Form 16, Summary Jurisdiction Notice to Plateau United FC dated 11th November, 2024.

2. That the above decisions are without prejudice to the right of appeal.

In attendance: Barr. J.B. C. Obikwelu (Chairman), Barr. Abdulrahman Abdulrahman (Vice Chairman), Barr. Mukhtar Ibrahim (Member), Barr. Wole Ademoyegun (Member), Barr. Bello Galadi (Member) and Queen W. Otarakpo, Esq. (Secretary)

DECISIONS OF THE MEETING OF THE NIGERIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION (NFF) DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE HELD ON 12TH FEBRUARY, 2025 ON THE PROTEST LODGED BY NASARAWA UNITED FC AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE NIGERIA PREMIER FOOTBALL LEAGUE (NPFL) ON THE MATCH PLAYED BETWEEN NASARAWA UNITED FC VS. RIVERS UNITED FC ON THE 22ND DECEMBER, 2024 AT THE LAFIA CITY STADIUM, NASARAWA STATE

FINDINGS:

1. The Committee found that the case of assault on the Referee was not proven beyond reasonable doubt and the Match Commissioner during interrogation denied knowledge of any assault on the Referee or any other Match Official.

2. The Committee found that the Match Commissioner is inexperienced and incompetent to handle any Premier League Match.

3. That there was video evidence showing that Nasarawa United FC supporters were throwing stones and objects into the field of play.

DECISIONS:

Based on the above findings, the Committee decides as follows:

1. The Committee affirmed paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8 of the decisions of the NPFL as contained in Form 16, Summary Jurisdiction Notice to Nasarawa United FC dated 13th January, 2025.

2. The order in paragraph “4” deducting 3 points and 3 goals from the accrued points/goals of Nasarawa United FC by the NPFL is hereby set aside, on the ground that the case of assault on the match official was not proven beyond reasonable doubt.

3. The Committee recommends that the Match Commissioner Mr. Godfrey Maman JP should be demoted to the Nigeria National League (NNL) category with immediate effect.

4. That the above decisions are without prejudice to the right of appeal.

In attendance: Barr. J.B. C. Obikwelu (Chairman), Barr. Abdulrahman Abdulrahman (Vice Chairman), Barr. Mukhtar Ibrahim (Member), Barr. Wole Ademoyegun (Member), Barr. Bello Galadi (Member) and Queen W. Otarakpo, Esq. (Secretary)

By Silvernews

Almere City right-wing back Hamdi Akujobi has been named in the Eredivisie Team of the Week (Elftal Van De Week) for Matchweek 22 following another standout performance in the Dutch top flight.

The 24-year-old Nigerian, who hails from Ikeduru, Imo State, has been a consistent performer for Almere City despite the club’s struggles this season. His impressive displays have earned him yet another individual recognition, solidifying his reputation as a key player for the relegation-threatened side.

Akujobi, who is also the brand ambassador of Jobisports FA, expressed his delight at the recognition and vowed to continue giving his best for the club.

> “I’m very happy to get this recognition. It means people are watching and appreciating my efforts. This will only push me to work even harder.”

With Almere City currently sitting at the bottom of the 18-team Eredivisie table, Akujobi remains optimistic about their survival chances.

> “We may be in a tough situation, but I believe it’s not impossible to escape relegation. With more drive, determination, and hard work, we can turn things around.”

Almere City will need all the inspiration they can get as they battle to stay in the top division.

In preparation for the upcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, has inaugurated the Imo State Liaison Committee to ensure the state’s successful participation in the competition.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Ministry of Sports Office, State Secretariat Complex, Owerri. The event marked a strategic step towards achieving victory for Imo State in the festival, scheduled to hold from April 1 to April 8, 2025.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Lady Ngozi Duruh, was appointed as the Chairman of the Committee, while Adm. Hon. Willie T.C. Okolieogwo, a representative of Dunamis Icon Limited, was named the Secretary. Other committee members include:
• Lady Justina Akpulo – Director of Sports, Ministry of Sports, Owerri
• Nze Tonnex Chukwu – Committee Member
• Obi Ogbala – Representative from the Ministry of Sports, Owerri
• Sir Ferdinand Emeana – Former Director of Sports, Imo State
• Chief Fred Edoreh – Consultant Partner, Dunamis Icon Limited, and Director, Niger Delta Sports Festival
• Oscar Keke – Representative from Dunamis Icon Limited
• G.O.C. Nwadike – Member and Head, Publicity Sub-Committee

Commissioner’s Charge to the Committee

While inaugurating the committee, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha charged the members to ensure proper coordination and consultation with his office and the event’s consultant. He emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and strategic execution to secure a formidable performance for Imo State at the festival.

“Our goal is to showcase the sportsmanship and talents of Imo athletes, ensuring that our state excels at the festival. This committee must work closely with all stakeholders to achieve the victory target of the Imo State Shared Prosperity Government,” Onyeocha stated.

The Niger Delta Sports Festival is a regional sports event featuring nine states under the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Participating states include Imo, Rivers, Cross River, Edo, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Ondo, and Delta.

The festival, set to take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, aims to promote sports development, unity, and healthy competition among the states of the Niger Delta region.

With the newly inaugurated liaison committee in place, Imo State is gearing up for a strong and competitive showing at the festival, reinforcing its commitment to sports excellence and youth development.

The United Brothers Club (a.ka Internal) has congratulated one of its founding members, Chief Ben Nwovu on his appointment as the Senior Special Assistant/ Chairman of the Ebonyi State Road Maintenance Agency (EBROMA).

The club in a statement issued by its Media Officer, Comrade Emeka Opara on behalf of its National President, Hon. Charles Akpu-Enika, described the appointment as well deserved and a testament of Nwovu’s ingenuity.

“The appointment reverbated across the state in unbridled unison and the eloquent commendations on the social media in particular, shows that Nwovu has the needed goodwill for the position.

“The United Brothers Club thanks His Excellency, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. BLDR Francis Nwifuru for the appointment and assure him that he actually fixed a square peg in a square hole.

“Nwovu is a man of impeccable character who has delivered on jobs given to him and this shows the calibre of ingenious personalities in the roll call of the United Brothers Club,”

The statement noted that Nwovu has contributed immeasurably to the growth and development of the club and it is happy that this capacity is about to be tested state wise.

“He is the Immediate Past National President of the Izzi Nnodo Youths Forum and used the position to galvanise peace and unity beyond boundaries.

“Nwovu was also a Special Adviser to Former Governor David Umahi on Road Maintenance and this shows that he is threading gorgeously, on familiar terrain.

“He was also a former Acting Chairman of Abakaliki Local Local Government Area of the state and within his 3- month stint on the saddle, his impeccable leadership qualities came to the fore,”.

The club in the statement joined throngs of Ebonyi people to wish Nwovu unbridled success in his new appointment and urge him not to let the governor, state government and the people down.

“This is a man who has contributed immeasurably to the development of Ebonyi and this appointment will definitely spur him to renewed service and greater accomplishment,”

The Imo State Football Association has a packed schedule this week, featuring crucial matches across various competitions.

OISA Stadium Hosts Semi-Final Clashes

Starting today, February 11, 2025, OISA FC will take on Capt Marvel FC at 1:30 PM, followed by a high-stakes encounter between Heartland FC and Dom Daniel FC at 3:30 PM. Both semi-final matches will be played at OISA Stadium, Okpala.

NWFL Action at Dan Anyiam Stadium

The Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) continues on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, with Heartland Queens FC facing Danazz FC at Dan Anyiam Stadium.

Kun-Khalifat FC and Heartland FC in League Fixtures

Kun-Khalifat FC will host its next NNL League home match on Saturday, February 15, 2025, while on Sunday, February 16, 2025, Heartland FC will battle Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan in a highly anticipated clash.

FA Mourns Late Sam Nwoke

The Imo State Football Association will also pay its last respects to Mr. Sam Nwoke, a deceased member of the association, who will be laid to rest at Ezi Ogbaku, Mbaitoli LGA this week.

All stakeholders and football lovers are urged to take note of these important events.

Renowned multimedia sports journalist, Honourable Ahize Nnamdi Anthony, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the founder of the Team Willie Organization (TWO), Ambassador Chief Willie T.C. Okolieogwo, FCIA, JP, Ome Ka Odi Nma N’Oru World Wide, on his recent appointment as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Ahize described the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Chief Okolieogwo’s unwavering dedication, leadership excellence, and remarkable track record in grassroots governance and youth development. He praised Chief Okolieogwo’s political acumen, referring to him as a Political Go-Getter, Oru-Nation Grassroots Political Mesmerizer, and ONWA OYOKO Foot-Soldier in Imo State.

“Hon. Okolieogwo has demonstrated competence, loyalty, and an unmatched commitment to public service. The reward for good work is more work, and truly, who the cap fits, let him wear it,” Ahize remarked.

He also commended the sports-loving Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, the Most Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for recognizing and rewarding excellence. Ahize highlighted Chief Okolieogwo’s previous leadership roles, including his tenure as Chairman of Oru-West Local Government Area and his service as a two-term Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Imo State.

Ahize emphasized that this appointment aligns with the governor’s 3R Mantra of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Recovery under the Shared Prosperity Government, ensuring continued development at the grassroots level.

With this new role, Chief Okolieogwo is expected to bring his vast experience and leadership skills to further strengthen local governance and enhance chieftaincy affairs in Imo State.

Coach of Abakaliki Football Club of Ebonyi, Ifeanyi Onyedika (MON) says his wards would keep fighting as it pipped Gateway FC of Abeokuta 1-0, in a Nigeria National League (NNL) match.

The lone goal of the match played at the Pa Ngele Oruta stadium Abakaliki on Saturday, was scored by Ifeanyi Ezema in the first half via a penalty.

Onyedika an AFCON 1980 winner with the then Green Eagles, said that despite the win, the team was not up to the required level.

“We would keep fighting to win every match and that is the spirit that would continue seeing us true.

“A win is very important at this level and we would always strive to win all matches: home and away.”

Coach of Gateway FC, Festus Allen said the team will work on both the positives and negatives from the loss.

“I will not disclose the positives and negatives so that out next opponents would not exploit them.

“I have reviewed our performance and will strive to make the team stronger in subsequent matches.

“I will not comment about the officiating due to the type of clime we operate-on,”

Richard Idike, Ebonyi Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, said the state’s team should be commended for giving its best on the pitch.

“You can see that we have good players who need time to blend.

“We commenced as a team, few weeks to the NNL kick off as the fans should continue encouraging the players to perform better.”

Abakaliki FC with the win, has garnered 10 points from 9 matches.

Cem Sagar, CEO of Diamond Sports Management, was present as Plymouth achieved a remarkable FA Cup victory, with Ryan Hardie’s penalty securing a 1-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday.

Muhamed Tijani, a product of 36 Lion, participated in the match for the victorious team and nearly scored with a well-placed header during the thrilling contest.

Sagar, a partner at 36 Lion, was on-site to provide support to Tijani, who has recently returned from injury.

The first half was marked by tension, with the visitors struggling to create opportunities and losing Joe Gomez to injury. The hosts capitalized on their chance after halftime when Harvey Elliott was penalized for handling the ball in the box, allowing Ryan Hardie to convert the penalty after a lengthy delay.

Miron Muslic’s team continued to create opportunities, but it was Liverpool that applied late pressure, coming close to equalizing through James McConnell, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota.

Tijani had a chance to extend the lead with a header from a cross, but it narrowly missed the target.

Plymouth’s goalkeeper, Hazard, emerged as a late hero, making two outstanding saves during nine minutes of added time—first denying Jota’s half-volley and then tipping over a close-range header from Nunez.

Just after preserving the lead, the final whistle blew, marking a match that could be remembered as an FA Cup classic, with the Championship’s bottom team eliminating the Premier League leaders.

Following the match, Hajji Gafar Liameed, owner of 36 Lion, remarked: “It is always a positive outcome when a Lion is involved.”

“Tijani Muhamed from Badiko Kaduna South secured the victory for Plymouth Argyle against Liverpool today in distant England.”

“Congratulations to the Lion family, and thank you, Cem Sagar, for bringing good fortune to Plymouth,” he added.