The Nigeria National League (NNL) has imposed heavy sanctions on Godswill Akpabio FC of Uyo and Barau FC of Kano for assaulting match officials and engaging in hooliganism during recent matches, the league announced yesterday.
Godswill Akpabio FC was found guilty of intimidating and assaulting match officials during their Matchday 15 clash against Rovers FC of Calabar on April 26 at Uyo Township Stadium.
The game ended in a 2-2 draw, but tensions flared as home team officials and fans harassed match officials, with player Austin Ajibawo cautioned for physically intimidating the first assistant referee. Further assaults occurred post-match.
The NNL fined Godswill Akpabio FC ₦3,000,000, to be paid before their next game, and ordered their next two home matches to be played behind closed doors. The club must also pay ₦250,000 in medical expenses for the assaulted officials, while Ajibawo faces a two-match suspension.
The Akwa Ibom State FA has seven days to identify the assailants or provide evidence of disciplinary action. Closed-door matches will allow only limited personnel, including 20 security staff, seven club officials per team, and 10 media representatives.
Similarly, Barau FC faced penalties for incidents during their 2-0 victory over Gombe United on April 26 at Danbatta Township Stadium. Home fans threw missiles at Gombe United’s technical bench, causing injuries and a 15-minute match suspension.
Barau FC was fined ₦2,000,000, ordered to pay ₦150,000 for Gombe United’s medical bills, and will play their next two home games behind closed doors.