In a shocking turn of events, reigning champions of the 2022/2023 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Enyimba International, have found themselves in hot water, slapped with a hefty N2 million fine for the misconduct of their officials during a clash with Rangers International.
The league’s disciplinary body issued the fine, citing a breach of NPFL regulations, specifically related to inadequate security provision during the intense encounter known as the Oriental Derby.
The NPFL’s official statement outlined the charges against Enyimba, emphasizing the failure to ensure sufficient security measures that resulted in unauthorized individuals gaining access to the match officials’ dressing room—an area strictly off-limits.
The champions faced further condemnation for the unruly behavior of their fans and officials, who reportedly harassed match officials in the restricted dressing room, an act deemed capable of bringing the game into disrepute.
Enyimba’s transgressions extended to the post-match scenario, with the club failing to ensure the proper conduct of their officials. This led to the harassment and intimidation of the referee after the final whistle.
As a consequence, the reigning champions received a N1 million fine for their lapse in providing general security and preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas.
Another N1 million was imposed for the overall misconduct and failure to regulate the behavior of their officials.
Additionally, Enyimba official Okey Nwabeke has been handed a three-match suspension from all NPFL activities due to charges of inciting and unsporting conduct.
The severity of these sanctions underscores the gravity of the club’s actions during the Oriental Derby.
Enyimba now faces a critical juncture as they have a mere 48 hours from the notice date to appeal the sanctions. The NPFL has also issued a stern warning, indicating that heavier penalties may be imposed in the future if the club or any of its officials engage in similar misconduct.
The football community anxiously awaits Enyimba’s response as the reigning champions navigate the potential repercussions of their actions in this controversial incident.
