When referees swap their whistles for football boots, the big question always comes up. Who gives the yellow card when a referee tackles late Who settles the argument when officials disagree over a call And do referees commit dissent when they are the ones usually punishing it?
These questions will once again come alive as all roads lead to the Opebi Primary School five-a-side Astro Turf pitch tomorrow for the second edition of the Lagos State Inter-Societies Championship organized by the New Generation and Young Talented Referees under the Lagos State Football Referees Council.
Beyond the banter and friendly rivalry, this championship represents something deeper within Lagos grassroots football. It is a celebration of unity, bonding and shared passion among the men and women who officiate games across streets, community pitches, academies and organized leagues in the state.
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Designed as a one-day festival of football and fun, the competition brings referees from different societies together to compete, relax and strengthen relationships. While the younger referees will battle it out on the pitch, thoughtful provisions have also been made for senior and retired members with games such as Scrabble, chess and Ayo Olopon, ensuring everyone feels included.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Miss Ekun Folashade, popularly known as Standard, explained that lessons from the maiden edition shaped this year’s planning.
She revealed that the venue was changed after feedback from participants. According to her, many referees complained about the playing surface used last year, prompting the committee to secure a better pitch to improve safety, comfort and overall experience.
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Miss Folashade expressed optimism that this edition would surpass expectations both in quality of play and atmosphere. She noted that while the younger referees are eager to sweat it out and compete fiercely, the ambience has been designed to ensure fun, relaxation and bonding across generations within the referee community.
On the pitch, several familiar names are expected to light up the tournament. Players to watch include Yomi Olabiyi, Olofinbinu Mayowa, Arasomwa Blessing, Adebayo Abdulganiu, Odufejo Segun, Olaniyi Toheeb, Adeniyi, Idris Afinni Isa, and Salami Olawale.
The women referees will also be well represented with standout names such as Shade Ekun, Gbemisola Yusuf, Ashade Senami, Adeniyi Nofisat and Olusola Omowunmi expected to showcase skill, grit and leadership.
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Nine of the ten societies under the Lagos State Football Referees Council will participate in this year’s championship. The competing societies are Agege Football Referees Society, Badagry Football Referees Society, Epe Football Referees Society, Eti Osa Football Referees Society, Ikeja Football Referees Society, Ikorodu Football Referees Society, Lagos Football Referees Society, Mushin Referees Society and Shomolu Football Referees Society.
To ensure fairness and professionalism even in this relaxed setting, a strong lineup of experienced retired and active referees has been appointed to officiate the matches. The officials include Ayeni Saheed (retired FIFA), Ajagbe Saheed, Adeyemo Kehinde, Durosinmi Yusuf, Alaba Olaniyi, Dehinsilu Isa, Kabiru Baoku, Morounkeji Bayo, Ibrahim Opeola and FIFA referee Ojeleye John Tope.
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The competition has received full endorsement from the Lagos State Football Referees Council Chairman, Engineer Adams Salauddin, alongside members of the Council Executive, further underlining its importance within the referee ecosystem.
All eyes will be on defending champions Ikeja Referees Society, who edged Ikorodu Referees Society with the very last kick of the final in last year’s dramatic finale. Questions remain whether Ikeja can retain their crown or if this year will produce a new champion.
Badagry Football Referees Society will also be eager to redeem themselves after parading arguably the strongest squad on paper last year but failing to make it past the group stage. With renewed determination and experience gained, they could emerge as serious contenders.
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As the turf looks better, the organization sharper and the stakes higher, one thing is certain. Tomorrow will be more than football. It will be laughter, debates, pride and shared memories among the custodians of the game.
When referees become players, anything can happen. The field is ready. Let the best society win.
Feature Image Credit: Lagos State Referees Council Instagram Page
