How Not To Kill The NPFL-By Akeem Busari

I have always tried to stay away from joining issues with some elements in Nigeria sports, because they mindlessly play the devil’s advocate.

I wonder how any right thinking person could accuse the centre referee in the NPFL match between 3SC and Ikorodu City, Funmilayo Alaba of biased officiating.

The public have watched clips of the game and it is clear for all discerning minds to know that the players and fans of the host team were obviously frustrated, having lost glaring opportunities and no small thanks to the determination and resilience of the defenders of Ikorodu City.

It is foolish and mindless to put a blanket stain on the good works of the Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye led NPFL board. The NPFL is today, better organised, more exciting, stronger and attractive to potential sponsors because of the zero-tolerance of the league body to poor, corrupt and inefficient match officials.

And just to remind the naysayers that Ikorodu City is a privately owned club led by a team of young, vibrant, dynamic and progressive minded football persons.

I also know that the management of Ikorodu City will never be involved in any unwholesome or underbelly acts. They are not desperate.

This team have lost games at home and won away from home too.

The reactions of the fans in Ibadan, shows how much they are misinformed by certain elements who would always attempt to cry more than the bereaved. It’s even interesting to note that while the press release by the media team of 3SC tried to deny the glaring attacks on the players and officials of Ikorodu City, as well, as the match officials, the press statement never mentioned ‘bad officiating’, as reason for the wanton attack on the visiting team.

The NPFL is gradually getting the necessary supports and attention from investors and lovers of the domestic league in Nigeria.

Let’s join hands to protect the future of the NPFL from self-aggrandising and attention seekers, who are known as advocates of the ‘Pull Him Down,’ syndrome.