The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed a hefty fine of N5 million on Rangers International FC due to several rule violations that occurred during their Match Day 35 fixture against Enyimba International FC. The match took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Sunday, June 9.
A letter from NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, dated June 10, outlined the various breaches committed by Rangers during the match. The encounter, which ended dramatically with a fan invasion, was abandoned deep into stoppage time after the centre referee, John Ojeleye, awarded a penalty to the home side, Enugu Rangers. The decision led to protests and a pitch invasion by away fans, causing the game to be abandoned with the score still goalless.
According to the NPFL’s ruling on Monday, the most significant infraction was Rangers’ violation of Rule B15.24. The club was found guilty of over-ticketing the match, which led to overcrowding at the stadium, incurring a fine of N2 million. Additionally, the club failed to provide adequate security measures, violating Rule B13.52, and was fined N1 million for this lapse.
Rangers were also penalized for not implementing sufficient crowd control measures, breaching Rule B13.52.1, which resulted in another N1 million fine. Furthermore, the club was fined an additional N1 million for not preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas, again contravening Rule B13.52.
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In total, these violations have led to Rangers International FC being fined N5 million. Alongside the financial penalties, the NPFL has mandated the club to adopt more effective crowd control mechanisms for future home games.
Rangers have been given 48 hours to accept the summary jurisdiction and the sanctions or to opt for a hearing before a disciplinary panel. The NPFL has warned that failure to comply or lodging a frivolous appeal could result in further sanctions, as per Rule E1 of the NPFL’s Frameworks and Rules.
This incident highlights the NPFL’s commitment to enforcing its rules and ensuring the safety and security of all match attendees. Rangers International FC now faces the challenge of implementing these measures to prevent future occurrences and to comply with the league’s regulations.
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