The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has issued strict sanctions against Plateau United after a series of rule violations during their Matchday 11 fixture against Rangers International on Sunday, November 10.
Plateau United faces severe penalties after failing to ensure adequate security, resulting in violence directed at match officials and Rangers players.
The trouble began when Plateau United’s supporters threw objects onto the field, injuring a match official. The situation escalated after the match, as fans allegedly assaulted an official and caused significant property damage, including the Rangers team bus.
According to the NPFL, the failure to control their supporters has “brought the game into disrepute,” violating the league’s frameworks and regulations.
For these breaches, Plateau United faces a substantial points and goals deduction, with three points and three goals removed from their season total.
Additionally, the club will be required to pay a hefty N2 million fine for its security failings and for supporters throwing objects onto the pitch.
The NPFL has further imposed a fine of N500,000 as compensation to both the injured match official, Zakari Aminu, and the Rangers player, Daniel Onyia, with each receiving N250,000.
Plateau United must also cover all costs associated with the repairs to the Rangers team bus and other verifiable damages incurred in the incident.
In a bid to prevent further issues, the NPFL has ordered Plateau United to play their next three home games behind closed doors at the New Jos Stadium, prohibiting fan attendance.
The league has given the club 48 hours to appeal these sanctions if they choose.
“This level of indiscipline cannot be tolerated. We need clubs to take full responsibility for their supporters’ actions,” a league representative stated.
The NPFL’s ruling reflects its commitment to player and official safety, sending a strong message about accountability and proper conduct in Nigerian football.