In a firm response to misconduct, the Nigeria National League (NNL) has imposed fines on Sokoto United and Ijebu United Football Clubs following incidents of assault on match officials during their Day Three encounters.
The board found both teams violating NNL rules and took decisive action to address the unsavoury incidents.
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Sokoto United, playing as the away team against Kebbi United at the Ginginya Memorial Stadium, Sokoto, experienced unruly behaviour from their supporters.
Reports revealed that at halftime, fans intimidated and attacked match officials with missiles, causing a delay in the commencement of the second half. Similar attacks occurred at the end of the match, leading to the imposition of fines and sanctions.
The NNL invoked sections 16.1, 16.3, and 27.1.3, imposing a fine of N1,000,000 (One million Naira) on Sokoto United.
Additionally, the club must pay N50,000 (Fifty thousand Naira) to replace the damaged windscreen of Kebbi United’s bus and cover the hospital bill for the injured Kebbi United player, Eli John.
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As a further consequence, Kebbi United will play their next three home games at the Ginginya Memorial Stadium behind closed doors.
Sokoto United Chief Coach, Muhammed Dan Asabe, and Goalkeeper Trainer, Shehu Rilwan, have each been handed a two-month ban by the NNL for their roles in the attack on match officials. Sokoto United has until December 15 to respond to the imposed fine.
In a separate incident, Ijebu United faced consequences for the misconduct of their supporters during their Day Three encounter with the Trade Safe Football Club of Lagos at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Supporters allegedly attacked match officials after the away team, Trade Safe, equalised in the game that ended 1-1.
Following the provisions of rule book 27.1.3, NNL imposed a fine of N500,000 (Five hundred thousand Naira) on Ijebu United. The club must pay the fine on or before their next home game.
The NNL’s swift and decisive actions underscore its commitment to maintaining discipline and fair play in Nigerian football, sending a strong message against violence and intimidation towards match officials.
