The Nationwide League One (NLO) has suspended the four players of Green Beret FC, following the players and officials of the club reportedly assaulting a match referee.
The Independent Mirror reports that the incident happened at the end of the game between Green Beret FC and Standard FC Kaduna on May 2, 2025 at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium.
The report indicates that the center referee was attacked by players and club officials of Green Beret FC immediately after the final whistle, resulting in bodily injuries.
The incident is a clear violation of Article 4.07(1) of the NLO rulebook, which prohibits intimidation or harassment of match officials before, during, or after games.
The league has condemned the actions and issued provisional sanctions pending a full investigation by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Disciplinary Committee.
Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo reiterated the NLO’s commitment to protecting the integrity of match officials and upholding discipline within the league structure
According to the official match report received by the NLO Secretariat, the following individuals have been suspended from all NLO-related activities:
• Alhassan Tofa (Jersey No. 1)
• Emmanuel Maidawa (Jersey No. 33)
• Major Aliyu Usman Akashe
• Officer Musa (Driver)
Additionally, Green Beret FC has been fined ₦100,000, which must be paid within 48 hours.
The league emphasized that the sanctions are in accordance with established rules and regulations and affirmed the club’s right to appeal the decision.
