The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Disciplinary Committee has made a decision regarding the protest filed by Rivers United against Sporting Lagos and Shooting Stars. Rivers United had raised concerns about the eligibility of certain players in their matches against the two clubs.
In the case of Shooting Stars, Rivers United questioned the eligibility of midfielder Hadi Mohammed, who had been transferred from Akwa United during the mid-season transfer window. However, the committee ruled that Mohammed was duly transferred and issued a license in accordance with the Nigeria Premier Football League framework, dismissing the protest for lacking merit.
Similarly, Sporting Lagos faced allegations from Rivers United regarding the fielding of six players who were not properly registered. These players were identified as Adeleke Adekunle, Paschal Durugbor, Mohammad Jamil, Ini Edem Ubom, Ezike Uzoechi, and Mike Samuel Zaruma. The committee investigated the matter and concluded that all the players were indeed transferred in accordance with the regulations.
Adeleke Adekunle was transferred from Rivers United FC, Paschal Durugbor from 1472 FC, Muhammad Jamil is a Free Agent, Ini Edem Ubom from Enyimba International FC, Ejike Uzoechi from Heartland FC, and Mike Samuel Zaruma is also a Free Agent.
The NFF Disciplinary Committee’s decision highlights the importance of following the rules and regulations set forth by the league to ensure fair play and integrity in Nigerian football. This ruling serves as a reminder to all clubs to adhere to the guidelines in player transfers and registrations to avoid any future disputes.
This development showcases the commitment of the NFF to uphold the standards of the Nigeria Premier Football League and maintain transparency in the sport. It also emphasizes the need for clubs to conduct their operations with diligence and compliance to prevent any controversies that may arise.
