Rivers United accept ₦15m NPFL fine and demand equal broadcast coverage

Rivers United have accepted a ₦15 million sanction imposed by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after alleged breaches of the competition’s rules and framework, including provisions covering broadcasting.

The fine followed incidents during the club’s Matchday 11 home fixture against Rangers International, which ended 1-1.

The Pride of Rivers confirmed on Thursday, 5 November 2026, that they would comply with the decision and would not appeal.

In a statement signed by the club’s Media Director, Charles Mayuku, and made available to Completesports.com, Rivers United said it had engaged with the relevant parties before the match in an effort to ensure it was conducted properly.

“The club confirms that all actions taken were preceded by appropriate engagements aimed at ensuring orderly conduct of the match and protecting the interest of all stakeholders,” the statement read in part.

The club also reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the standards expected of a professional NPFL side and respecting the league’s regulations.

“Rivers United remains fully committed to the highest standards of professionalism. We’ll continue to uphold the rules of the league and respect its regulatory, commercial and broadcasting frameworks,” it added.

The club said stronger cooperation between the league, its participating teams and broadcast partners was needed to avoid similar problems.

It highlighted the importance of accurate scheduling and prompt communication, arguing that both were necessary to prevent disruptions and protect the integrity of the competition.

“Effective collaboration between the League, clubs and broadcast partners is essential, particularly in match scheduling. Clear and timely communication is necessary to prevent disruptions and safeguard the integrity of the competition,” Rivers United said.

The club also used its statement to call for a more even allocation of live television coverage across the NPFL’s 20 teams.

Rivers United argued that giving selected clubs greater exposure, while leaving others without comparable coverage, damages the league’s development and limits access for Nigerian football supporters.

“The Media and Broadcast Initiative agreement with MBI was intended to ensure comprehensive coverage of league fixtures, including matches such as Niger Tornadoes FC vs Barau FC and others on the broadcast schedule. This commitment was not fulfilled. No justification, apology or sanctions have followed,” the club said.

It added that responsibility for meeting agreed broadcast commitments should apply equally to every party involved.

“A breach of any agreement remains a breach, regardless of the party responsible. Accountability must apply equally,” Rivers United demanded.