The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has handed Ekiti Queens heavy sanctions after match officials were assaulted during Wednesday’s home fixture against Edo Queens in Ado-Ekiti an incident the league describes as a serious breach of safety and conduct rules.

In a swift reaction on Thursday, NWFL Media Director Samuel Ahmadu released an official statement outlining the disciplinary actions, stressing that the league will not tolerate any threat to the safety of referees or the integrity of its competitions.

NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi confirmed the sanctions and strongly condemned the attack, reaffirming the league’s commitment to maintaining professionalism at all match venues.

“The assault on our match officials in Ado-Ekiti is completely unacceptable and a gross breach of NWFL regulations,” Shabi said. “The safety of referees is paramount. Violence, intimidation, or any behaviour that undermines the integrity of the league will attract the strongest possible sanctions.”

Following a review of match reports and video evidence, the NWFL found Ekiti Queens guilty of several violations, including failing to provide adequate security, failing to control supporters, and creating an unsafe environment that led to the attack.

As a result, the club has been fined a total of ₦2.5 million for the various infractions. Additionally, Ekiti Queens have been ordered to play their next three home matches at a neutral venue, the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.

Shabi further noted that the sanctions should serve as a warning to all clubs across the league.

“The NWFL will continue to enforce strict standards to protect match officials and maintain order at all centres. An attack on a referee is an attack on the league itself,” she added. “Clubs must ensure full compliance with our safety and conduct regulations.”

The league also urged home teams, state football associations, and matchday organisers to tighten security arrangements as the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership season intensifies.