Drama unfolded at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja after an assistant coach of the Nigerian Army volleyball team slapped referee Hadiza Uchoke during a heated clash at the Controller General of Customs Volleyball Championship.
The shocking incident happened in the middle of a tense match between the Nigerian Army and Nigeria Civil Defense teams. The disputed point that triggered the confrontation quickly spiraled out of control as Army players and officials stormed the court, halting the match and confronting the officiating crew of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF). Fans watched in disbelief before being evacuated when the atmosphere grew too hostile to continue.
The NVBF immediately suspended the match and began emergency deliberations on sanctions. According to international volleyball regulations, any coach who physically attacks a referee is considered aggressive and is instantly disqualified. The rules further state that the coach must leave the arena and the team will be deemed incomplete for the rest of the game. This penalty applies to both first-time and repeat offenders, underscoring how seriously the sport treats assaults on officials.
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The altercation has now cast a shadow over the prestigious championship, which had been celebrated for its competitive spirit and strong turnout. While officials are yet to announce the final decision, many in the volleyball community are already calling for strict disciplinary measures to set an example and protect the integrity of the game.
The Nigerian Army team has not released an official statement, but the NVBF has vowed to uphold the rules without compromise, stressing that violence against referees has no place in volleyball. The fate of the Army team in the tournament now hangs in the balance as the investigation continues.
