The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to issue an official stance on the ₦10 million fine imposed by the Lagos State Football Association on Kwara United General Manager, Bashir Badawiy, following an incident at the President Federation Cup final held last Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
Badawiy is accused by the Lagos FA of breaching security protocols during the high-profile final, reportedly making an aggressive attempt to jubilate in front of five seated state governors in the VVIP section of the stadium after Kwara United’s victory.
In a letter signed by Lagos FA Secretary, Mrs. Vera-Hycient Okechukwu, the state football body demanded that Badawiy pay a ₦10 million fine and issue a formal apology addressed to both the Lagos FA and the NFF, with a submission deadline of Monday, July 15, 2025.
However, Badawiy has strongly refuted the Lagos FA’s authority to impose such a sanction, arguing that the event was a national competition solely under the jurisdiction of the NFF.
“Ordinarily, this is not a matter I should have reacted to, especially coming from the Lagos State Football Association, considering the fact that the competition mentioned is not a Lagos State affair, but a national event,” Badawiy said.
“I would have fully respected this call if it had emanated from the Nigeria Football Federation, who are the owners of the competition. Let me remind you that I am a football person, and I respect all development protocols.”
The Kwara United GM also questioned the basis of the alleged offence:
“Mentioning that I breached security during an important match like the final of the President Federation Cup is surprising. Attaching a ₦10 million fine makes it even more confusing.
“The NFF President and Secretary General were both present at the final. If there had truly been a breach, they were well positioned to address it—not the Lagos FA.
“I don’t know when jubilation in football became an offence that attracts such a steep penalty. That’s a funny call.”
Efforts to get a response from NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi were unsuccessful, as both officials failed to respond to calls and messages from our correspondent as of press time.
Kwara United defeated Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties in the men’s final to secure their first major trophy in club history, marking a historic moment that was overshadowed by the unfolding disciplinary controversy.