The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has handed down heavy sanctions to Ekiti Queens following an assault on match officials during Wednesday’s home match against Edo Queens in Ado-Ekiti, describing the incident as a grave breach of league safety and conduct regulations.

 

In a swift reaction on Thursday, NWFL Media Director Samuel Ahmadu issued an official statement outlining the disciplinary measures and warning that the league would not tolerate any actions that endanger referees or undermine the integrity of its competitions.

 

Confirming the sanctions, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi condemned the incident, stressing that the league maintains zero tolerance for violence.

 

“The assault on our match officials in Ado-Ekiti is completely unacceptable and a gross breach of NWFL regulations,” Shabi said.

 

“The NWFL wishes to reiterate that 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 preliminary review of official reports and video evidence, the NWFL found Ekiti Queens guilty of multiple violations, including failure to provide adequate security, failure to control supporters, and creating an unsafe match environment that led to the attack on officials.

 

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

 

Shabi emphasized that the sanctions are intended to serve as a deterrent 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 said. “Clubs must ensure full compliance with our safety and conduct regulations.”

 

The NWFL also appealed to home teams, state football associations, and matchday organisers to strengthen security operations as the intensity of the 2025/26 Premiership season continues to build.