Kano Pillars Star Ahmed Musa Criticizes Officiating In NPFL

Super Eagles captain and Kano Pillars forward, Ahmed Musa has expressed his concerns about officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), particularly following the recent Matchday nine fixture between Nasarawa United and Kano Pillars at Lafia City Stadium.

Ahmed Musa specifically pointed out issues with the centre referee, Dahiru Muhammed Kawo, and assistant referee, Abdulmajid Sani Potiskum, regarding a contentious goal that appeared to involve two Nasarawa United players in offside positions.

“I’ve been advocating for the progress in officiating within the league, but the events of this Matchday 9 game raise questions about the direction we are heading in. It makes me reconsider whether returning to the NPFL was the right decision,” Musa said.

As Nigeria’s all-time FIFA World Cup top scorer, Musa, who recently rejoined his boyhood club Kano Pillars alongside Shehu Abdullahi, emphasized the importance of high-quality officiating to encourage other Super Eagles players to consider finishing their careers in the Nigerian elite division.

“If we continue to see such officiating, it could deter others from returning to the NPFL. We want to make the most of our efforts and contribute positively to the league,” he noted.

Ahmed Musa, who opted for the NPFL over foreign opportunities, expressed his aspiration to help elevate the league to European standards but reiterated that the current officiating does not align with that vision. “I aim to assist in raising the NPFL’s profile, but officiating like what we experienced in Lafia creates challenges that hinder progress”, he said.

Note that Kano Pillars lost the match 1-0 and will be preparing to face Plateau United in their upcoming Matchday 10 fixture.