Following a spate of violent protests which has led to the death of over 23 people, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has suspended all domestic football until further notice.

The violence which broke out last week engulfing several cities in the West African country was sparked after a Dakar court sentenced main opposition leader, Ousmane Sonko to a two-year prison term on charges of “corrupting the youths.”

Following days of violence which saw security forces clash with protesters, leading to deaths and destruction of government properties and public utilities, the football federation decided to suspend all football activities due to security concerns.

A statement by the FSF on Friday, said:

“All football competitions are suspended until further notice throughout the national territory.”

The FSF statement added that the decision was the result of a government order which mandated that several public activities should be put on hold.

The statement noted that the suspension did not affect the national team, the Terenga Lions which is the reigning African champions after defeating Egypt in the final of the last AFCON.

The Terenga Lions have a date with Benin Republic in the 2024 AFCON qualifying match on June 17.

International football players’ union, FIFPRO, has warned African footballers against signing with clubs in the Egyptian league, following allegations of slavery and harsh working conditions.

The FIFPRO warning is coming after a report emerged of a “disturbing rise in labour conflicts involving issues such as non-payment of salaries and abusive behaviour within the Egyptian football scene.”

The Egyptian league is one of the top leagues in Africa with lots of African players, especially Nigerian players who have made the north African country a sort of footballing mecca.

According to the report, there are around 30 Nigerian players plying their trade in the Egyptian league, with many of them often complaining of withheld or delayed salaries.

The likes of Emeka Eze and Anthony Okpotu are currently plying their trade with Al Masry, while Paul Joules, Favour Akem, Akinade Ibukun play for El Geish.

Smouha FC has in its books Sodiq Ougola, Abubakar Liday, and Junior Ajayi, who came out few months ago to complain of welfare issues with the club.

In the warning, FIFPRO advised the players to exercise extreme caution when considering moving to the Egyptian league.

In the statement, the players’ union said the increasing labour conflicts in the Egyptian league “emphasizes that such a move may potentially lead to legal proceedings.”

“In light of this, FIFPRO provides valuable recommendations to protect players’ interests,” the statement reads.

“It is important not to surrender their passports to club officials; they should, submit photocopies or insist on personal presence during formalities.

“FIFPRO also warns against signing blank contracts, as clubs have been known to manipulate these by later inserting different details. Players are urged to retain a signed original version of their contract and ensure that the currency is fixed to prevent club manipulation.

“Additionally, players are advised to approach agent dealings with caution, seeking support from trusted parties in case of disputes,” it added.