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By Wakawaka Sports
Abia Warriors FC have appealed to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) to withdraw the five-match suspension imposed on their media manager, Chidera Favor Igwe, contesting an allegation of inadequate security during the matchday 10 match on Sunday 25 October 2026.
The Umuahia-based club described the suspension as excessive and unjustified, insisting that Igwe made no attempt to disrupt the live broadcast of the league match.
In its formal appeal, the club explained that Igwe had expressed displeasure at what she considered to be poor refereeing when the television crew allegedly kept the camera trained on her for an unusually long period.
According to the club, she simply advised the cameraman to move to the away team’s side after spending a long time covering the home team’s section.
Abia Warriors maintained that Igwe did not attempt to stop or obstruct the cameraman in carrying out his official duties, urging the league to review the incident objectively and reconsider disciplinary action.
The club recognized the importance of the league’s broadcast partners, but stressed that professionalism, fairness and mutual respect should guide the conduct of all stakeholders in Nigerian football.
The club disputes the safety allegations
In a separate response to a jurisdiction summary notice over an alleged breach of rule 8.13.52 of the 2026/2027 EUROMATCH NPFL Framework and Rules, Abia Warriors insisted that adequate safety measures were in place during the matchday 10 match.
The club argued that live footage could provide an objective account of security arrangements and events during the match.
It further said that the visiting team left the stadium without harassment or any reported security incidents, adding that the visiting team could independently confirm the circumstances surrounding its departure.
Abia Warriors have therefore urged the league to review the broadcast footage and seek confirmation from the visiting team before making a decision on the charge.
The club asked for the notice to be withdrawn, arguing that the circumstances of the match warranted a fair and objective assessment of security measures.
Appeal to fairness
The club reiterated its commitment to complying with NPFL regulations and maintaining constructive relationships with the league, broadcast partners, referees and other stakeholders.
He also called for fairness, transparency and due process in considering both matters.
Abia Warriors have also called for the five-match suspension imposed on Igwe to be lifted. Alternatively, the club has asked the league to reconsider the sanction if it believes disciplinary action is warranted.
The NPFL’s response to the club’s submissions was not included in the information made available for this report.
