NPFL: NFF warns against unruly behaviour at match venues

A board member of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chief Dele Ajayi, has warned against unruly behaviour by any team or supporter in country’s premier league.

Ajayi gave the warning on Wednesday in Akure during a sensitisation programme organised by management of Sunshine Stars for its players, ahead of the first match of the season.

He said that the football federation was also doing everything possible to standardise Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

While emphasising on discipline, Ajayi, who is also the Chairman of Ondo State Football Association, charged footballers and supporters of Sunshine Stars to comport themselves on and off the pitch.

He said that the current NFF board was keen on standardising the league.

“This season will be a serious departure from the past. We are going to put the best referees, the best match commissioners and any stadium that there is trouble or harassment of match officials, it is three goals against such a team.

“That is why we need to talk to the players. Likewise, the business of supporters’ clubs is to support their teams, while referee’s decision is final.

“We will do our own bit; the coaches will do theirs and they must be updated about the laws of the game,” he said.

Also, a retired FIFA referee and resource person at the programme, Mr Henry Ogunyanmodi, stressed the need for briefing footballers and coaches of the latest technical rules which, he said, would stand them out in the league.

Responding, First Assistant Coach of Sunshine Stars and former national player, Akin Olowookere, said that the technical team would continue to guide the players and make use of all the techniques and instructions for a better outing.