Euromatch NPFL: Ranchers Bees hit with ₦5m fine for rules violations

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed a total fine of ₦5 million on Ranchers Bees for multiple rule violations committed during their Matchday 6 fixture against Rivers United. The club has been given until Thursday, October 1, to disclose the identity of the player captured on video assaulting a Rivers United player. The sanctions were detailed in NPFL's Summary Jurisdiction decisions issued on September 29.

Ranchers Bees were fined N2 million for failing to maintain adequate security measures, allowing unauthorized individuals to access restricted areas of the stadium, which contravenes Rule B13.52. Additionally, the club received a N1 million fine for not restraining players and bench officials who intimidated, threatened, and harassed match officials on the field, in violation of Rule C1.1.

Another N1 million fine was imposed for the club's failure to ensure its supporters conducted themselves appropriately, with some allegedly attempting to assault match officials, violating Rule C9. Lastly, a further N1 million fine was imposed for the club's inability to prevent match officials from being held hostage after the game, as stipulated by Rule C26 of the NPFL's Frameworks and Rules.

The club has 48 hours to decide whether to accept these sanctions or refer the matter to a Disciplinary Panel, with the fines to be paid within seven working days following the conclusion of the appeal period.