NFF suspends referee Yakubu Adamu over controversial Rangers penalty decision
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has handed referee Yakubu Adamu an indefinite suspension following the controversial penalty decision during Rangers International’s NPFL clash against Bendel Insurance.
The decision, announced on Tuesday by the NFF Refereeing Development Committee, takes immediate effect and bars the official from all football-related activities pending further review.
Adamu came under heavy criticism after awarding Rangers a penalty that the committee later ruled was inconsistent with the Laws of the Game. Rangers converted the spot kick and went on to claim a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance in a result that immediately sparked intense debate across the Nigerian football community.
According to the committee, the referee’s call had a direct impact on the outcome of the match and ultimately brought the game into disrepute.
The incident has since generated widespread reactions from fans, analysts, and league stakeholders, with many questioning officiating standards in the Nigeria Premier Football League this season.
While Rangers continue their push for a strong finish in the league campaign, Bendel Insurance are left frustrated after losing a crucial fixture under contentious circumstances.
In its statement, the NFF reiterated the importance of professionalism, fairness, and strict adherence to the Laws of the Game, stressing that referees must maintain the highest standards of officiating in competitive matches.
The federation added that disciplinary action became necessary to preserve confidence in Nigerian football and reinforce accountability among match officials.
The suspension of Adamu further highlights the growing scrutiny surrounding refereeing decisions in the NPFL, where several controversial moments this season have fueled conversations about consistency and integrity in officiating.
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