Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru has condemned the attack on Sebastian Onwe, the referee for the final match of the 2023 governor's cup competition, which took place on Sunday evening.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), players and supporters of the Ishielu Local Government Area (LGA) side descended on the referee following the game, pursuing him all over the stadium as he ran for his life.
The governor personally intervened to save the referee from the mob that had overpowered the security guards who were attempting to protect him.
“The runners-up was supposed to receive N700,000 but we would add N1.2 million to make it N1.9 million.
“The third placed team was to receive N500,000 but we would add N1 million to make it N1.5 million,” he said.
The State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, thanked the governor for being present at the final and commended the participants for their efforts.
“The management will take a decision on the attack on the referee because we are not known for such acts,” he said.
According to NAN, Ebonyi LGA won the trophy after defeating Ishielu 2-1, while Ohaozara LGA finished third after defeating Izzi 1-0 in the third-place match. (NAN)
