Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-07 03:55:36
The NNL, the organisers of Nigeria’s second tier professional football league, have made the decision to relocate Rovers FC of Calabar to Eket, Akwa Ibom State due to various infractions during their home game against Ekiti United. The league body, led by COO Ayo Abdulraham, stated that Rovers failed to provide adequate security, leading to the game being abandoned midway through the second half. As a result of their actions, Rovers have been fined N1 million and are required to produce the individual responsible for assaulting the Ekiti United goalkeeper.
Additionally, Ekiti United have been fined N500,000 for their decision to abandon the game due to inadequate security. The NNL rules framework was referenced in both cases to justify the fines imposed on the clubs. To ensure fair play, both teams have been instructed to conclude the match at a neutral venue in Eket. Furthermore, the referee and match commissioner who oversaw the game have been recommended for removal by the appropriate authorities due to their poor handling of the situation.
In a separate incident, Coal City FC have also been fined N1 million for failing to present their club licenses during a match against Stormers FC of Abeokuta. The Enugu-based team claimed that they had forgotten their licenses at home and did not have digital copies available. Stormers, who emerged victorious with a single goal, were forced to play the game under protest due to Coal City’s oversight.
These disciplinary actions highlight the NNL’s commitment to upholding the integrity of professional football in Nigeria. By holding clubs accountable for their actions and ensuring that matches are conducted in a fair and safe manner, the league aims to promote a culture of respect and sportsmanship among all participants. Moving forward, it is essential for teams to adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the NNL to maintain the standards of professionalism expected in the league.
