The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced significant sanctions against Ikorodu City FC following a series of security violations during their Match Day 17 fixture against Remo Stars over the weekend.
The club has been fined a total of N3 million and banned from hosting home fans for their next two matches.
The NPFL issued a summary jurisdiction notice, detailing the specific breaches, which include failure to provide adequate security, allowing unauthorized access to restricted areas, and failing to maintain proper conduct among their team and supporters.
The most concerning incident involved the assault of Remo Stars’ assistant coach, Sulaimon Kamil.
In response to the incident, the NPFL has directed Ikorodu City FC to identify and prosecute those responsible for the assault within seven days.
The league’s swift actions underscore its commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment at football matches.
The breakdown of the sanctions is as follows: a N1 million fine for failure to provide adequate security, a N1 million fine for encroachment onto the field of play, and another N1 million fine for failing to ensure the proper conduct of their team and supporters.
Ikorodu City FC has been given a 48-hour window to either accept the sanctions or request a hearing before a disciplinary panel.
This decision serves as a clear warning to all clubs in the NPFL that security breaches and violent behavior will not be tolerated.
This incident adds to a growing list of recent security concerns in the NPFL. In November, Plateau United and Bendel Insurance faced similar sanctions for security lapses and violent incidents during home matches.
Plateau United was fined N4 million, had three points and three goals deducted, and was ordered to pay compensation to the injured match official and a player.
Bendel Insurance also faced penalties, including a fine of N3.75 million and deductions in points and goals.
The NPFL’s decisive action demonstrates its commitment to upholding the integrity of the league and ensuring the safety of all participants.