NPFL slams Nasarawa United with stadium ban, hefty fines for security breaches

By Dayo Awoniyi

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has sanctioned Nasarawa United following serious security lapses during their home game against Plateau United, which led to violent conduct and the physical assault of a player.

The league’s governing body found Nasarawa United guilty of failing to provide adequate security and not ensuring proper conduct by their supporters, actions that directly contributed to the chaos at the Lafia Township Stadium.

One of the most alarming incidents saw Plateau United player Vincent Temitope stabbed by an unidentified fan, with the player currently in stable condition after receiving medical attention.

As a result of these violations, the NPFL has ordered Nasarawa United to relocate their remaining home matches for the 2024/2025 season to Pantami Stadium in Gombe.

The Lafia-based outfit has also been fined a total of six million naira for various breaches of league rules, including poor security arrangements, allowing unauthorized access to restricted areas, and repeated violations of the NPFL framework.

In addition, the league has mandated that Nasarawa United pay compensation and cover medical expenses for the injured player, further reinforcing its stance on player safety and accountability.

The NPFL stated that the disciplinary measures are intended to serve as a warning to all clubs, emphasizing that any act endangering players, officials, or fans will not be tolerated. Nasarawa United has the right to appeal the decision within 48 hours.