The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has announced a reduction in the sanctions imposed on Smart City Football Club, lowering the initial two-year ban to one year and reducing the financial penalty from ₦6 million to ₦3 million.
This decision follows an appeal for leniency submitted by the club’s management.
The ruling was delivered after a meeting of the LSFA Disciplinary Committee, held on Monday, March 2, 2025, at the association’s Surulere Secretariat. The session, chaired by LSFA Vice-Chairman Adedotun Coker, had full attendance from committee members. Representatives of Smart City FC, including Alhaji Kamaldeen Olawoye, Club Secretary Wale Afolayan, and Team Manager Adebiyi Ojo, presented their case, expressing remorse and emphasizing the impact of the sanctions on the players’ careers.
Key Considerations and Decisions:
- Player Welfare and Career Impact: The committee acknowledged the long-term effects a prolonged ban could have on the careers of the club’s players and considered this in reducing the suspension period.
- Proactive Response by the Club: The club’s immediate action in apprehending and handing over the violent fan responsible for the incident to law enforcement authorities was a significant factor in the committee’s decision to lessen the sanctions.
- Revised Ban Duration: The suspension was reduced to one year, with the first three months (March–June 2025) serving as an active ban. Additionally, Smart City FC will be excluded from participating in the 2025/2026 Lagos State President Federation Cup.
- Financial Sanctions: The initial fine of ₦6 million was reviewed and reduced to ₦3 million.
- Competition Restrictions: Smart City FC remains ineligible to participate in all LSFA-sanctioned football competitions during the suspension period.
The LSFA emphasized that while the reduction in penalties aims to safeguard the players’ careers, the association remains committed to maintaining discipline and upholding the integrity of football in Lagos State.
