NLO Bans Green Beret FC for Two Years Over Assault on Match Officials

Posted : 06 June 2026

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has imposed severe sanctions on Green Beret FC following a violent attack on match officials after the club's fixture against Zamfara United FC, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of Nigerian football.

In a statement released by the league's Board and Management, the NLO condemned the incident, describing it as one of the most disturbing acts of violence witnessed in recent seasons.

The league revealed that a referee sustained serious injuries during the attack and was reportedly left bleeding on the ground after being assaulted.

Expressing deep concern over the safety of match officials, the NLO stated that such conduct poses a direct threat to the development of the game and undermines efforts to promote professionalism across Nigeria's football pyramid.

The league also noted that Green Beret FC had previously been linked to a similar incident, making the latest occurrence a repeat offence that warranted firm disciplinary action.

Following an investigation and a review of match reports, the NLO announced a series of sanctions against the club.

The result of the match, originally a 2-0 victory for Zamfara United FC, has been upgraded to a 3-0 win in favour of the Zamfara-based side.

Green Beret FC has also been fined ₦1 million for violent conduct and ordered to pay the amount within seven days. In addition, the club must pay ₦500,000 in compensation to the injured referees within the same period.

The most significant punishment is a two-season suspension from all Nationwide League One activities, with the ban extending to both the club and its officials.

Furthermore, Green Beret FC has been directed to identify and produce the individual accused of stabbing a referee within 48 hours.

The NLO stressed that violence against match officials will not be tolerated under any circumstances, insisting that football must remain a safe and secure environment for players, officials, supporters, and other stakeholders.

The league urged clubs and their supporters to uphold the principles of sportsmanship, respect, and fair play, warning that future incidents of violence would attract even stricter sanctions.

With these measures, the NLO has sent a clear message that the protection of match officials remains non-negotiable and that actions capable of bringing the game into disrepute will be met with decisive punishment.

NLO Bans Green Beret FC for Two Years Over Assault on Match Officials

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