Referee Olaniyi Oladapo has come under intense criticism following his controversial officiating in Shooting Stars Sports Club’s (3SC) 2-0 defeat to Remo Stars in the Matchday 14 NPFL clash. Fans, players, and analysts are demanding that the centre referee be summoned by the league’s disciplinary committee for decisions they claim altered the outcome of the game.
The match, which took place at the Remo Stars Stadium, was evenly contested until Oladapo issued a questionable second yellow card to 3SC’s right-back, Muritala Taiye, in the 40th minute. The dismissal left the Oluyole Warriors down to 10 men. “Taiye’s second booking was harsh and unnecessary,” said a 3SC player who requested anonymity. “It felt like the referee had an agenda against us.”
The tipping point came just before halftime when Oladapo awarded a contentious penalty to Remo Stars after minimal contact in the box. Despite protests from 3SC players, Sikiru Alimi stepped up and converted the spot-kick, giving the home side a crucial lead. “That was never a penalty,” said a visibly frustrated 3SC fan. “The referee’s decision-making completely changed the dynamics of the game.”
In the second half, 3SC displayed resilience despite being a man down, dominating possession and creating chances. However, poor finishing combined with another questionable decision to overlook fouls on 3SC attackers cost them a potential equalizer. Remo Stars capitalized on the referee’s leniency toward their defenders and sealed the win through Olamilekan Adedayo’s 67th-minute strike.
Fans have since taken to social media, calling for the NPFL Disciplinary Committee to investigate Oladapo’s conduct. “This level of officiating is unacceptable,” tweeted a furious 3SC supporter. “Referees like Oladapo are ruining our league’s credibility.”
The controversy has reignited conversations about the quality of refereeing in the NPFL and the need for stricter accountability measures. With 3SC set to host Abia Warriors on Matchday 15, the club has urged the league management to ensure fairness in future fixtures. “We will be filing an official complaint,” a club spokesperson confirmed. “Referees must be held accountable for their actions.”
