NPFL Sanctions Enyimba Over Security Breaches, Fan Misconduct

Enyimba FC have been charged for breaching the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Framework and Rules following incidents during their Matchday 21 fixture against Barau FC on January 18, 2026.

According to the NPFL, the Aba-based club failed to provide adequate and effective security for the match, which allowed unauthorized persons to gain access to restricted areas of the stadium.

Enyimba were also found guilty of failing to ensure proper conduct of their supporters, a lapse that led to the harassment of match officials. The situation escalated further after supporters encroached into restricted zones and reportedly held the match officials hostage for several hours after the game.

The league body added that the misconduct of Enyimba supporters resulted in the loss of valuable items belonging to the match officials, an act deemed capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

As a result of the breaches, Enyimba have been fined a total of ₦5 million. The sanctions include a ₦2 million fine for failing to provide adequate and effective security, ₦1 million for encroachment into restricted areas, and an additional ₦2 million—₦1 million each—for supporters’ misconduct and holding match officials hostage.

In addition to the financial penalties, Enyimba will play their next three home matches behind closed doors.

The People’s Elephant have been given 48 hours from the date of notice to appeal the sanctions.