NFF Confirms No Negligence in Referee's Death Incident

The Nigeria Football Federation Development Committee described the death of a referee during a fitness test in Abuja as an unfortunate incident. Faith Irabor, the committee chairman, stated that the referee had undergone the necessary medical examinations, including an electrocardiogram, before participating in the fitness exercise.

Irabor clarified that the deceased referee presented a medical report signed by a doctor certifying him fit for the exercise. The medical team from the Nigerian Sports Commission also conducted further checks before the referees were cleared.

Irabor noted that officials monitored the referees closely during the exercise and acted promptly when the referee showed signs of distress. She dismissed claims that the ambulance was non-functional, asserting it was operational and used to transport the referee to the hospital.

Irabor emphasized that all precautions were taken and mentioned that the committee is considering strengthening the medical screening process for referees.