The hammer has fallen hard in Nigeria’s top flight.
The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has slammed Kwara United FC with sweeping sanctions following violent scenes during their Matchday 22 rearranged fixture at the Kwara State Stadium.
After reviewing reports from the game involving Rivers United FC, the league found the Ilorin club guilty of multiple breaches of its framework and rules.
The Offences
Failure to provide adequate and effective security
Allowing unauthorized persons access to restricted areas
Failure to control supporters
Assault on match officials
Assault on Rivers United officials
Holding match officials and Rivers United officials hostage for hours after the match
Unsporting conduct that brought the game into disrepute
The Punishment
Three points and three goals deducted
N9 million total fine
Immediate banishment from home ground
Remaining home matches to be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena
Order to identify and produce offending supporters for arrest and prosecution
48 hours to appeal the ruling
The sanctions represent one of the most decisive disciplinary actions of the season, shaking Kwara United’s campaign and forcing a painful exile from Ilorin to Abeokuta.
For the NPFL, the message is clear: violence and disorder will not be tolerated in Nigeria’s top flight.
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