NPFL: Delta Government Offers ₦200,000 Reward After Attack on Warri Wolves Match Officials

The Delta State Sports Commission has announced a ₦200,000 reward for anyone who provides credible information leading to the identification and arrest of a suspect involved in an attack on match officials following Warri Wolves’ Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fixture against Kano Pillars.

The incident occurred on Sunday outside the Southern Delta University Stadium in Ozoro, where Warri Wolves played out a goalless draw with Kano Pillars.

The commission announced the reward in a statement signed by its secretary, Henry Ukah, following the assault, which it described as a disturbing incident that has no place in football.

According to the statement, the match officials had already been escorted out of the stadium by security personnel after the game. They were reportedly at the officials’ bus outside the venue when the attack occurred.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of match officials, who are responsible for enforcing the rules and ensuring that football matches are conducted fairly. The commission’s decision to offer a financial reward is aimed at helping the authorities identify the suspect and bring those responsible to justice.

Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, said the ₦200,000 reward was intended to encourage members of the public to provide useful information that could lead to an immediate arrest.

Oborevwori also reaffirmed the commission’s opposition to hooliganism and violence in football, stressing the need to protect officials and maintain order at sporting events.

The commission urged anyone with credible information about the incident to report it to the Ughelli Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force, where the case has been lodged.

The appeal places emphasis on public cooperation as the authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify the person responsible.

Violence against match officials remains a serious concern for football authorities because it threatens the safety of those appointed to oversee matches and undermines the orderly conduct of the game. Officials must be able to carry out their duties without fear of intimidation or physical assault.

The incident in Ozoro took place after Warri Wolves and Kano Pillars had completed their league encounter. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, with both sides sharing the points.

The commission’s response signals its determination to ensure that the reported assault is investigated and that the suspect is apprehended. By offering a reward, the body is seeking to encourage witnesses or anyone with relevant information to assist the police.

Oborevwori’s position also reinforces the commission’s stated zero-tolerance approach to football-related violence. The body has called on the public to support the investigation by sharing credible details with the appropriate police command.

The authorities have yet to announce an arrest in connection with the incident in the information provided by the commission.

For now, the focus remains on identifying the suspect, establishing responsibility and ensuring that the matter is handled through the appropriate legal process.

The commission’s appeal serves as a reminder that football-related disagreements must not result in violence against players, officials or other participants. Match officials, in particular, must be able to leave venues safely after fulfilling their responsibilities.

The Delta State Sports Commission is urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has reliable information about the suspect to contact the Ughelli Area Command as the investigation continues.