A female referee, Patience Nweke slumps following beatings by players and fans of J Atete FC following their home loss to Ekiti United this evening.
After she had signalled the full-time whistle for the Nigeria National League (NNL) match in Delta State, players and fans of J Atete FC attacked her.
She was reportedly punched severally until she collapsed on the turf and lost consciousness. She was immediately rushed to the hospital. At the time of this report, her state of health is reportedly critical.
All efforts to reach Mr Julius Atete, Chairman of the home team proved abortive as we seek updates on the health of the referee.
Only a few days ago during a Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) fixture between Kano Pillars and Dakkada, Yusuf Maigoro put the home team in front with a nice goal in the 22nd minute.
Towards the end of the game, Kano Pillars Chairman, Alhaji Surajo Yahaya Jambul was seen approaching the touch to punch the Assistant Referee after Dakkada FC scored a late equaliser.
The goal was later chalked off after the centre referee consulted the assistant referee that was punched.
Back in May, a centre referee received a heavy blow from an MFM fan during a game against Enugu Rangers that ended in a draw.