The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed a N5 million fine on Ranchers Bees for breaching rules during their Matchday 6 encounter against Rivers United at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on September 28. The fine is a result of multiple infractions, including failure to provide adequate security, intimidating match officials, and misconduct by supporters. The league body has also ordered the club to identify and produce one of their players who attacked a Rivers United player during the match.
According to the NPFL's summary jurisdiction decision, Ranchers Bees breached Rule B13.52 by failing to provide effective security, allowing unauthorized persons to access restricted areas of the stadium. The club was fined N2 million for this infraction. Additionally, Ranchers Bees breached Rule C1.1 by not restraining players and bench officials who intimidated and harassed match officials, incurring a N1 million fine.
The NPFL also cited Ranchers Bees for failure to ensure proper conduct of their supporters, who attempted to attack match officials, breaching Rule C9. This resulted in a N1 million fine. Another N1 million was imposed on the club for holding match officials hostage after the match. The fines must be paid within seven working days from the expiration of the appeal period.
The NPFL's Chief Operating Officer, Dr Ayo Abdulrahman, signed the summary jurisdiction decision on September 29. The decision stated that Ranchers Bees has 48 hours to either accept the sanctions or elect to be dealt with by a disciplinary panel. The club must also identify the player who attacked the Rivers United player within the same timeframe.
The incident has raised concerns about fan behavior and security in Nigerian football. The NPFL has taken a firm stance on enforcing its rules and regulations to maintain the integrity of the game. Ranchers Bees will need to take immediate action to address these issues and avoid further sanctions.
The fine and sanctions imposed on Ranchers Bees serve as a warning to other clubs in the NPFL to prioritize security and sportsmanship. The league body has demonstrated its commitment to upholding the standards of the game and protecting match officials and players. The incident will likely be reviewed and discussed by the club, the league, and relevant stakeholders.
Ranchers Bees, a Katsina-based team, will need to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The club must work to improve security measures and ensure that players and supporters conduct themselves in a sporting manner. The NPFL will likely monitor the club's progress and take further action if necessary.
Key points
- NPFL fines Ranchers Bees N5m for breaching rules on Matchday 6
- Club ordered to identify player who attacked Rivers United player
- Fine includes breaches of security, conduct, and hostage-taking rules
