The Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) has formally quashed the appeal lodged by First Mahi Babes FC concerning the result of Match 25 against Pelican Stars, held on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The decision to quash the appeal is based on procedural grounds, as the club failed to properly notify and lodge the protest with the Match Commissioner before and after the match, in accordance with NWFL rules.
First Mahi Babes had filed a petition regarding the use of allegedly improperly cleared players by Pelican Stars, specifically naming players Ayah Theresa (Jersey No. 20) and Ruth Lawrence (Jersey No. 14). However, the Imo State based club did not follow the stipulated protocol outlined in the NWFL regulations.
According to 'Rule 15.12' of the NWFL, “Protests from clubs arising from any match shall be forwarded in writing to the League within 24 hours after the match (Sundays and Public holidays exclusive), accompanied by a protest fee of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only (N250,000.00) for premiership and One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N150,000.00) only for Championship.”
Additionally, 'Rule 15.14' states that “Written protests properly lodged with the Match Commissioner at the match venue and accompanied by appropriate protest fees shall be accepted by the League.”
The NWFL remains committed to upholding the integrity of the league and ensuring that all procedures are followed accordingly. Any future protests must be made in line with the league’s outlined guidelines to be considered.
Credit: NWFL Media