Nigeria National League (NNL) has taken decisive actions against football clubs owned by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Senator Jibrin Barau, following incidents of assault and hooliganism during their recent matches.
Godswill Akpabio FC, based in Uyo and owned by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was found guilty of conducting itself unprofessionally during its Matchday 15 encounter against Rovers FC of Calabar held at the Uyo Township Stadium on 26 April.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw, but according to a press statement released on Friday and signed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) director of communication, Ademola Olajire, both match officials and fans faced intimidation from the home team from the start of the second half.
Additionally, player Austin Ajibawo received a caution for physically intimidating the first assistant referee. Further incidents of assault occurred at the end of the match.
In response, the NNL has imposed a fine of N3million on Godswill Akpabio FC, which must be paid prior to their next match. The club is also required to play its next two home matches behind closed doors, restricting attendance to only 20 security personnel, seven club officials per team, 12 ball boys, 10 host FA officials, match officials, accredited medical personnel, two accredited cameramen per team, and 10 media representatives.
Additionally, the club must pay 250,000 Naira towards medical expenses for the assaulted match officials, while Ajibawo has received a two-match suspension. Furthermore, the Akwa Ibom State Football Association has been given seven days to identify the assailants or provide evidence of disciplinary measures taken.
Similarly, Barau FC, owned by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, committed violations during their home game against Gombe United at the Danbatta Township Stadium on the same day. Throughout the first half, fans hurled objects at the technical bench of Gombe United, leading to injuries and causing a 15-minute suspension of the match, which Barau FC ultimately won 2-0.
As a consequence, Barau FC has been fined N2million and is required to pay N150,000 for medical expenses for the injured Gombe United officials. The club is also mandated to play its next two home matches under strict closed doors.
The NNL’s stringent measures reflect a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the league and ensuring the safety of all participants involved in matches.