The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has summoned Gbenga Ogunbote, the Technical Manager of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), for a disciplinary hearing following comments he allegedly made after a Matchday 12 encounter against Ikorodu City in Lagos. The league management deemed some of Ogunbote’s remarks a potential violation of the NPFL’s code of conduct for coaches.
In a formal invitation addressed to Ogunbote, the NPFL expressed concern over the statements attributed to him, noting that they appeared to question the integrity of match officials and the league’s governance. “We have taken note of certain unguarded public statements attributed to you following the Matchday 12 fixture between Ikorodu City FC and Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), held on 17th November 2024,” the letter read.
The NPFL emphasized that such comments could harm the league’s reputation. “Your remarks, as reported, appear to contravene the League’s Code of Conduct for Coaches and Officials by casting aspersions on the integrity of the match officials and the League’s governance structure. These actions are considered detrimental to the reputation of the NPFL and its stakeholders.”
Ogunbote has been directed to appear before the NPFL Disciplinary Committee on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, at 10 a.m. The hearing will take place at the NPFL Secretariat in Jabi, Abuja. The league emphasized that his presence is mandatory and advised him to bring any relevant evidence or representation to support his case. “Kindly confirm your attendance on or before Friday, 29 November 2024,” the letter concluded.
The NPFL reiterated its commitment to upholding professionalism and integrity across all aspects of the league. “We expect all stakeholders to adhere strictly to these principles,” the league stated, assuring the public of its dedication to maintaining high standards of conduct.
This development underscores the NPFL’s resolve to ensure accountability and discipline among coaches and officials, reinforcing its focus on preserving the league’s credibility and fairness.