The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has indefinitely suspended referee Abdulrasheed Jimoh and assistant referee Adamu Zakari over a controversial decision to disallow a Kwara United goal in their Nigeria Premier Football League encounter against Rangers International in Awka.
The NFF Refereeing Development Committee ordered the suspension following the disputed officiating decision during Sunday’s Matchday 12 fixture at the Awka Township Stadium in Anambra State.
Rangers, the defending champions and league leaders, claimed a 1-0 victory through Victor Chimezie’s 40th-minute goal.
The Flying Antelopes dominated much of the first half and successfully protected their narrow advantage after the interval.
Kwara United appeared to have equalised in the 78th minute when Alex Jerry found the back of the net. However, the second assistant referee flagged for an infringement, resulting in the goal being disallowed.
The Harmony Boys continued to push for an equaliser in the closing stages but failed to find a breakthrough as Rangers held on to secure all three points.
The decision generated controversy after footage of the incident circulated online, with several supporters questioning the officials’ call.
The NPFL confirmed the suspension in a post on its official X account on Tuesday, stating:
“Referee Abdulrasheed Jimoh & assistant referee Adamu Zakari have been suspended indefinitely by @thenff refereeing development committee for what it described as the cancellation of a “validly scored goal’ by Kwara Utd against Rangers on Sunday.”
The indefinite suspension means both officials will not receive match appointments until further notice.
The incident has renewed concerns about officiating standards in the domestic league, with refereeing decisions continuing to attract scrutiny from clubs and supporters.
It has also highlighted the importance of accurate application of the Laws of the Game, particularly in decisions capable of influencing match results.
