The Nigeria Premier Football League has put coaches, club officials, and other stakeholders on notice, warning that public statements disparaging the league or its match officials will result in disciplinary sanctions.

NPFL Chief Operating Officer Ayo Abdulrahman issued the warning via a formal memo addressed to all clubs, stating that the advisory had become necessary as the 2026/27 season gathers pace — particularly in the wake of a widely circulated video interview involving Sporting Lagos FC head coach Jeffery Buter.

Buter's comments spark official response

According to Abdulrahman, Buter's remarks called into question the integrity of the centre referee after Sporting Lagos' Matchday 6 clash against Barau FC in Lagos. The league said such statements risk damaging its reputation and could deter both existing and prospective commercial partners.

The memo reminded all clubs of the provisions outlined in Appendix B, Rule 7, and Section A, Rule 5.5.2 of the NPFL Framework and Rules 2026/2027, which expressly prohibit public criticism and disparaging comments directed at the league and its officials by players, coaches, and club personnel.

Official channels must be used

Abdulrahman stressed that established procedures are in place for clubs to raise officiating concerns, and that those mechanisms — not public interviews or social media — are the appropriate route for any grievances.

He urged clubs to ensure their coaching staff and management refrain from making any statements that could bring the league or its match officials into disrepute, adding that future violations would be dealt with firmly under the NPFL's own rules and regulations.

The move comes amid growing scrutiny of refereeing standards across the Euromatch NPFL season, with Abdallah also recently questioning officiating decisions following Ranchers Bees' draw with Rivers United.