NPFL: Ranchers Bees Fined ₦5m Over Multiple Breaches Against Rivers United

Ranchers Bees have been fined a total of ₦5 million by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for multiple breaches during their Matchday 6 fixture against Rivers United.

The sanctions were contained in the NPFL’s Summary Jurisdiction decisions issued on September 29 and signed by its Chief Operating Officer, Dr Ayo Abdulrahman. Ranchers Bees were found guilty of violating Rules B13.52, C1.1 and C9 of the league’s Frameworks and Rules.

The club was fined ₦2 million for failing to provide adequate security at the stadium, allowing unauthorised persons to gain access to restricted areas in breach of Rule B13.52.

Ranchers Bees also received a ₦1 million fine for failing to restrain players and bench officials who intimidated, threatened and harassed match officials during the game. Another ₦1 million fine was imposed after supporters allegedly attempted to attack the officials, while a further ₦1 million was issued over the club’s failure to prevent match officials from being held hostage after the match.

The NPFL has also directed Ranchers Bees to identify, by Thursday, October 1, the player captured on video physically assaulting a Rivers United player during the match for further disciplinary action.

Under Rule C26, Ranchers Bees must either accept the sanctions or elect in writing to have the matter heard by a Disciplinary Panel within 48 hours of receiving the notice. The fines are payable within seven working days after the expiration of the appeal period.

Meanwhile, Rivers United’s 1-1 draw with Katsina United on Wednesday extended their unbeaten start under head coach Finidi George to six matches.

Rivers United took the lead through Samson Olasupo in the 48th minute, but Sani Mubarak equalised for Katsina United with a free-kick two minutes later. The hosts pushed for a winner but could not break down a Rivers United defence that has conceded only two goals in six matches.

The result moved Rivers United to second place with 12 points, one behind leaders Enugu Rangers, while Katsina United remained 11th with eight points. Rivers United will face Ikorodu City next, while Katsina United travel to Lagos to face Inter Lagos FC.