Bendel Insurance have strongly condemned the actions of their head coach, Kennedy Boboye, following the controversial incidents that marred their Matchday 32 clash in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The Benin City-based club issued an official apology to the league body and the Nigeria Referees Association after the heated encounter against Plateau United at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on March 28 ended in chaos.
Following an internal review, Bendel Insurance described Boboye’s conduct as “ugly and unfortunate,” stressing that such behaviour falls short of the club’s values.
The management confirmed that the experienced tactician has been cautioned and warned against any recurrence, reiterating their commitment to discipline and professionalism.
The situation, however, escalated beyond internal sanctions, with the Nigeria Premier Football League taking decisive action.
Boboye has been handed a 17-match suspension and fined ₦2 million for gross misconduct, which reportedly included confrontation with match officials.
In addition to the coach’s punishment, Bendel Insurance were also sanctioned for security lapses and fan misconduct during the game.
The club will pay heavy fines and play their next three home matches behind closed doors.
As part of efforts to prevent future incidents, the club has urged players, coaches, and officials to refrain from engaging in heated arguments with referees, warning that such actions could attract further disciplinary measures.
The “Benin Arsenals” will begin serving their stadium ban this Saturday when they host Abia Warriors in NPFL’ matchday 34 opener without the fans as they look to move past the controversy and refocus on their league campaign.
