Chaos at ABS Kaduna as players protest poor officiating in Nationwide League One playoff

What began as a fiercely contested Nationwide League One (NLO) playoff fixture between FWC Champions FC and City FC on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the ABS Stadium in Kaduna, descended into chaos after players from FWC Champions FC staged a sit-down protest over what they described as another round of poor officiating — a recurring theme throughout the tournament.

The match, held at one of the key centres of the ongoing playoff series, was marred by a series of controversial decisions, including ignored fouls, inconsistent calls, and what many in attendance labelled as blatantly biased refereeing.

In a rare but powerful act of protest, FWC Champions FC players halted play and sat on the pitch in front of stunned fans and league officials, voicing their frustration and drawing attention to what they believe has been a tournament riddled with injustice from the first whistle.

Sunday's incident is not the first to cast a shadow over the competition.

On Matchday 2, Campro FC players delayed their game against City FC for over five minutes following the awarding of a third questionable penalty in a single match — sparking outrage and disbelief among both players and coaching staff.

Officiating standards at the Kaduna centre have come under heavy criticism, with coaches from multiple teams openly expressing their dissatisfaction.

The growing unrest has left many questioning the credibility and fairness of the playoff.

The protests and incidents across multiple matches have now triggered calls for urgent intervention.

Stakeholders and fans are urging the Nigeria Football Federation to investigate the unfolding situation at the Kaduna centre and take decisive action to restore integrity to the tournament — and, by extension, to Nigerian football.

The image of the league, already under scrutiny, now hangs in the balance as calls for accountability grow louder.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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