At the Oriental Derby last weekend, Abia Warriors were found guilty of breaching the league’s framework and conduct by their officials and has resulted in the team being slammed a fine of ₦4 million, platinumnewsng.com is reporting.
The Nigeria Premier Football League board on Monday evening charged Abia Warriors for violating the league’s framework and rules, specifically pointing out incidents before the match that led to violent altercations, tarnishing the game’s reputation.
The accusations involve aggressive actions by some Abia Warriors officials, obstructing the away team, Rangers, from accessing the pitch. This resulted in chaotic scenes, raising concerns about the game’s integrity.
According to the statement released, the Umuahia-based club failed to ensure adequate security for the visiting team, which led to physical altercations initiated by some of their officials.
It was also reported that the team interfered with the league’s official broadcast partner’s work, harassing the media crew and confiscating the mobile device of the StarTimes regional manager.
Consequently, the league imposed further fine on Abia Warriors. A total of ₦4 million in fines has been levied: ₦1 million for misconduct bringing disrepute, ₦1 million for inadequate security provision, and an additional ₦2 million for obstructing broadcast partners.
Moreover, the club has been instructed to identify and present the officials involved in the misconduct for further disciplinary measures. Abia Warriors have been sternly warned against barring visiting teams’ access to the field before future matches, with a caution of facing more severe sanctions if such behavior recurs.