The Umuaka Sports Council has issued a stern warning to all 10 communities participating in the ongoing Akah Ebiri sports competition, cautioning players, supporters and fans against any form of violence or physical attack on referees and sports officials.
The council emphasised that no community will be exempted from disciplinary action if its players or supporters engage in violence against match officials during the competition.
According to the warning, any community found violating the Akah Ebiri sports laws by attacking or fighting referees or sports officials risks suspension from the competition.
The council stressed that regardless of how angry, provoked or dissatisfied a player or supporter may feel over a decision made during a match, violence is never an acceptable response.
Instead, all complaints, grievances and protests concerning officiating or other match-related issues must be formally channelled through the appropriate authorities of the Sports Association, preferably through the team’s manager or captain.
The council maintained that referees and sports officials must be allowed to discharge their duties without intimidation, threats or physical attacks. It also urged team managers, captains, community leaders and supporters to exercise restraint and encourage peaceful conduct throughout the competition.
The warning serves as a reminder that the Akah Ebiri competition is intended to promote unity, sportsmanship, healthy rivalry and peaceful coexistence among the 10 communities of Umuaka, rather than create divisions or conflict.
The message from the Umuaka Sports Council is clear: No matter the level of provocation, violence against match officials will not be tolerated. Any community that violates the competition’s rules on violence risks suspension.
All participating communities are therefore urged to brief their players and supporters on the regulations and ensure that every match is conducted in an atmosphere of discipline, fairness and mutual respect.
*Umuaka News24 reporting.
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