NFF, NPFL criticized for silence on player misuse by Akwa, Kwara United

The Players Status and Arbitration Committee PSAC has expressed frustration over the continued use of newly signed players by Akwa United, Kwara United, and Abia Warriors, despite the clubs’ failing to comply with directives to clear their debts. These clubs were previously ordered to resolve their financial obligations before fielding newly registered players in Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL matches.

A member of the PSAC, speaking anonymously, described the situation as a failure of enforcement by the NPFL and the Nigerian Football Federation NFF. The affected clubs have allegedly ignored directives and continued to play new signings during Matchdays 10 and 11, without facing any penalties.

Football agent Eddie Ogbemudia, whose firm represents several players impacted by this issue, expressed disappointment at the lack of communication from the PSAC and NPFL, calling the delay in enforcement “justice denied.” Insider sources allege interference by a high-ranking NFF official, granting the clubs an indefinite waiver in violation of FIFA’s Article 50, which guarantees the independence of arbitration committees.

Ogbemudia has called on the newly appointed Chairman of the National Sports Commission NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, to intervene and establish a National Dispute Resolution Chamber to address such sports disputes effectively.

With Matchday 12 approaching, the ongoing inaction risks eroding trust in the NPFL and NFF’s leadership and threatens to undermine the development of Nigerian football.

Editorial

The situation involving Akwa United, Kwara United, and Abia Warriors is a stark reminder of the critical need for transparency, accountability, and enforcement within football governance. The PSAC’s inability to ensure compliance with its directives weakens trust in the system and sets a dangerous precedent for future cases.

This incident also highlights the negative impact of external interference on justice and fairness in football. For the game to thrive, all stakeholders must respect the rules and uphold the independence of arbitration committees. Without swift action, the credibility of Nigerian football institutions could suffer long-term damage.

As fans of Nigerian football, we urge the NSC to address this issue urgently. Establishing a National Dispute Resolution Chamber could ensure more consistent enforcement of regulations, fostering an environment where clubs are held accountable for their actions.

Did You Know?

1. FIFA’s Article 50 mandates the independence of arbitration committees, allowing their decisions to be appealed only to the Court of Arbitration for Sport CAS.
2. The Players Status and Arbitration Committee PSAC was established to resolve disputes between players, clubs, and other football stakeholders in Nigeria.
3. Akwa United, Kwara United, and Abia Warriors are the only NPFL clubs currently under scrutiny for failing to comply with PSAC directives.
4. In similar cases, FIFA has imposed severe penalties, including bans, on clubs that fail to honour arbitration decisions.
5. Delays in resolving such disputes can significantly impact player welfare, club integrity, and the overall development of domestic football leagues.