Abia Warriors Contest NPFL Sanctions Against Media Officer

Posted : 29 October 2026

Abia Warriors have challenged disciplinary action against their Multimedia Officer, Chidera Favor Igwe, urging the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) to overturn her five-match suspension and reconsider an alleged security breach during their Matchday 10 fixture on Oct. 25.

The Umuahia-based club described the suspension as excessive, arguing that Igwe did not attempt to obstruct the live broadcast of the encounter.

In its appeal, Abia Warriors explained that Igwe had expressed dissatisfaction with what she considered poor officiating after a broadcast cameraman allegedly focused on her for an unusually long period.

The club said she only advised the cameraman to redirect his coverage towards the visiting team after spending considerable time filming the home team’s section.

According to Abia Warriors, the interaction did not amount to an attempt to disrupt the broadcast or prevent the cameraman from carrying out his professional responsibilities.

The club acknowledged the importance of the league’s broadcast partners but maintained that fairness, professionalism, and mutual respect should underpin relationships among football stakeholders.

Club Disputes Security Allegation

Separately, Abia Warriors challenged a summary jurisdiction notice alleging a breach of Rule 8.13.52 of the 2026/2027 EUROMATCH NPFL Framework and Rules over security arrangements at the Matchday 10 fixture.

The club maintained that adequate security measures were in place throughout the encounter, urging the league to review the available evidence before determining the matter.

It argued that the live broadcast footage could provide an objective account of the events at the stadium and the security arrangements made for the match.

Abia Warriors also stated that the visiting team departed the venue without molestation or any reported security incident.

The club added that the away team could independently confirm the circumstances surrounding its departure, urging the NPFL to obtain its account before reaching a decision.

Consequently, Abia Warriors called for the withdrawal of the notice, insisting that the circumstances of the fixture deserved an objective assessment.

Appeal for Reconsideration

The club reaffirmed its commitment to NPFL regulations and maintaining professional relationships with the league, broadcast partners, match officials, and other stakeholders.

It urged the league to uphold fairness, transparency, and due process in resolving both disciplinary matters.

While seeking the immediate withdrawal of Igwe’s five-match suspension, Abia Warriors said the league should alternatively reconsider the sanction if it determines that disciplinary action is necessary.

The NPFL’s response to the club’s appeals was not available at the time of filing this report.

Abia Warriors Contest NPFL Sanctions Against Media Officer

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