Sporting Lagos boss Jeffrey Buter summoned by NPFL over referee criticism

Sporting Lagos head coach Jeffrey Buter has been asked to appear before the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after publicly questioning the standard of refereeing in the competition.

Buter’s comments followed Sporting Lagos’ 1-1 draw with Barau FC in a keenly contested matchday six fixture at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, last month.

The coach criticised the officiating after the game and challenged the performance of referee Abubakar Abdullahi, who is from Niger State.

The NPFL has taken exception to Buter’s remarks and has summoned him to appear before the league body at its headquarters in Abuja this week.

League officials have also warned coaches and club officials against making public statements or critical comments that could damage the credibility of match officials.

The NPFL said complaints relating to officiating must be submitted through the appropriate administrative channels rather than aired publicly.

According to the league, following that process is necessary to safeguard the image and integrity of the competition, as well as its sponsorship interests.

By Adeboye Amosu