Ivorian Football Federation has issued a lifetime ban to referee Brou Eba Serges after finding him guilty of corruption and blackmail, in what officials describe as a significant step in restoring integrity to domestic football.
The decision follows an investigation into allegations that the referee approached club officials with offers to influence match outcomes in exchange for money.
According to findings presented to the Central Arbitration Commission, he also threatened to ensure defeats for teams that refused to comply with his demands.
The case came to light after a district-level side, Real FC, reported the matter.
The club’s general secretary provided evidence, including an audio recording, which authorities described as decisive in confirming the referee’s actions.
Following a review of the material, the federation imposed its strongest possible sanction.
Brou Eba Serges has been permanently expelled from the refereeing body and barred from any further contact with officials within the system.
The ruling is being seen as a landmark moment in Ivorian football, particularly at grassroots level where concerns over match manipulation have occasionally surfaced.
By acting decisively, the federation appears to be sending a clear message that unethical conduct will not be tolerated.
While details of individual matches potentially affected were not disclosed, the allegations outlined a pattern of behaviour in which the referee sought to exploit his position.
Investigators concluded that he attempted to manipulate outcomes by leveraging his authority on the pitch.
For many observers, the role of Real FC in exposing the issue has also been widely noted.
The club’s willingness to report the incident, despite potential risks, has been highlighted as a key factor in ensuring accountability.
The federation’s action aligns with broader efforts across African football to strengthen governance and improve transparency.
In recent years, there has been increasing emphasis on tackling corruption at all levels of the game, from elite competitions to local leagues.
Although the case centres on a single individual, its implications are wider.
It raises questions about oversight mechanisms and reinforces the importance of vigilance among clubs, officials and administrators.
The lifetime ban not only removes the referee from active duty but also prohibits him from engaging with former colleagues, effectively ending his involvement in the sport.
