The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has imposed a ban on Smart City, prohibiting the club from engaging in any football-related activities due to security violations that occurred on Thursday, February 13th.
This decision was communicated to the club in a letter dated February 14, 2025, which was subsequently shared with the media.
The LSFA’s disciplinary action was prompted by a report from match officials regarding an incident during the FA Cup match between Smart City and Inter Lagos at Legacy Pitch.
In the letter, signed by LSFA Vice Chairman Mr. Adedotun Coker, it was noted that a player named Bankole Afeez confronted the Match Referee, subjecting the official to harassment and verbal abuse.
A prominent supporter of Smart City pursued the referee and struck him in the right eye, causing a severe cut that affected his vision.
Supporters of Smart City attempted to assault key football stakeholders during a disgraceful incident.
The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has instructed Smart City to identify the fan responsible for the referee’s assault for legal action. Additionally, the club has been ordered to present gang leader Mr. Bankole Afeez for a meeting with the Disciplinary Committee.
The LSFA imposed a fine of N1,000,000.00 (One million Naira only) on Smart City for the treatment of the referee, which must be paid within seven (7) days from the date of the ruling.
Moreover, the club was fined N5,000,000.00 (Five million Naira only) for failing to manage their fans’ conduct, allowing them to invade the pitch and threaten the safety of members of the Lagos State Football Association and the Lagos State Referees Council, thus tarnishing the reputation of football. This fine is also due within seven (7) days from the date of the ruling.
In addition, Smart City has been banned from participating in LSFA-sanctioned football activities for the next two (2) years.
The LSFA and the Lagos State Referees Council have been instructed to promptly report the threats to life and property to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State.
The LSFA has stated that these decisions do not affect the right to appeal to the Disciplinary Committee.
