In a bold move to restore discipline and integrity in Nigerian football, the Nigeria National League (NNL) has come down hard on two clubs—Godswill Akpabio FC of Uyo and Barau FC of Kano—following disturbing acts of violence and intimidation against match officials during their respective Matchday 15 fixtures.
At the Uyo Township Stadium on April 26, chaos marred the intense 2-2 draw between Godswill Akpabio FC and Rovers FC of Calabar.
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What should have been a competitive display of football spiraled into mayhem as match officials became targets of harassment and assault.
Tensions boiled over right from halftime, with both fans and officials of the home team reportedly intimidating the referees.
The flashpoint came when Godswill Akpabio FC player, Austin Ajibawo, was cautioned for physically intimidating the first assistant referee—a confrontation that later escalated into full-blown assaults after the final whistle.
In response, the NNL has imposed a N3,000,000 fine on Godswill Akpabio FC, which must be paid before their next game. The team must also foot a N250,000 medical bill for the injured match officials and play their next two home matches behind closed doors. Ajibawo has been suspended for two games, while the Akwa Ibom State FA has been given a seven-day ultimatum to identify the perpetrators or prove disciplinary action has been taken.
The “strict closed-doors” order will limit match attendance to essential personnel only, including security, medical staff, a handful of media representatives, and officials—a stark departure from the usually vibrant matchday atmosphere.
Similarly, Barau FC has found itself in hot water after fans attacked the visiting Gombe United bench with dangerous projectiles during their April 26 encounter at the Danbatta Township Stadium. Despite their 2-0 victory, Barau FC’s triumph was overshadowed by the 15-minute abandonment of the match due to injuries caused by the missile-throwing fans.
The NNL has fined Barau FC N2,000,000 and ordered a N150,000 compensation for medical expenses incurred by Gombe United’s injured staff. Like their Uyo counterparts, Barau FC will also play their next two home games in empty stadiums under strict supervision.
This crackdown sends a resounding message from the NNL: violence and misconduct have no place in Nigerian football. With growing concern over the safety of match officials and players alike, these punishments are a pivotal moment in the league’s fight to safeguard the spirit of the beautiful game.
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