Warri Wolves Hit With ₦4.2m Fine, Three-Point Deduction After Referee Assault

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed financial and disciplinary sanctions on Abia Warriors, Katsina United and Warri Wolves over security breaches and other offences recorded during their respective home matches.

Abia Warriors were fined ₦3.2 million for failing to provide adequate security, contrary to arrangements agreed upon during the pre-match technical meeting ahead of their encounter with Niger Tornadoes.

The Umuahia-based club was also found guilty of an attempt by one of its officials to disrupt the live broadcast of the match by harassing a crew member of the league’s broadcast partner.

In addition to the club’s fine, its multimedia officer, Chidera Favour Igwe, has been suspended from all NPFL match activities for five matches.

Katsina United were fined ₦2 million for failing to provide adequate and effective security during their fixture against Plateau United. The club was also sanctioned for allowing supporters to encroach onto the field of play.

Warri Wolves received the heaviest punishment following the unruly conduct of their supporters during their Matchday 10 encounter against Kano Pillars in Ozoro on Sunday.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the NPFL fined the Seasiders ₦4.2 million, deducted three points and three goals from their accumulated tally, and ordered the club to play its next three home matches behind closed doors.

The league stated that Warri Wolves failed to provide adequate security at the stadium, resulting in an assault on match officials after the final whistle.

The NPFL further disclosed that the second assistant referee sustained a nose injury and was left bleeding during the incident.

The sanctions underscore the league’s efforts to enforce discipline, improve stadium security and protect match officials, players and other participants during league fixtures.

All three clubs have 48 hours from the date they were notified of the sanctions to appeal the decisions in accordance with the NPFL’s disciplinary procedures.