Abia Warriors and Rangers International found themselves in hot water after a heated Matchday 10 Oriental Derby that erupted into chaos at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
The Nigerian Premier Football League took swift action, penalising both clubs for breaching the NPFL Framework and Rules due to the misconduct of their officials during the clash.
Footballrover understands that the trouble began when Abia Warriors officials aggressively blocked Rangers from accessing the pitch before the match.
This led to a violent response from the Rangers camp, creating a scene that marred the game and violated league standards.
UNFORTUNATE DRAMA IN UMUAHIA ????
Rangers Intl arrived earlier today for the Oriental derby in their traditional attire and headed straight to the pitch while singing and dancing.
This act didn’t go down well with the Abia warriors officials and this happened ????????… pic.twitter.com/NF0ozMcxdh
— Official54fx (@54footballx) November 26, 2023
Abia Warriors faced a double blow, being fined N1 million for their officials’ actions that brought the game into disrepute, along with an additional N1 million for failing to ensure proper security.
The club was hit with an extra N2 million penalty for restraining NPFL broadcast partners from recording the pre-match event and was directed to identify the official responsible for further sanctions.
Rangers International also faced the consequences, receiving a N1 million fine for their officials’ misconduct.
They were similarly instructed to identify and produce the individuals involved for additional repercussions.
The NPFL issued a stern warning to the Abia Warriors against obstructing visiting teams from accessing the field in future matches.
Both clubs were warned of heavier penalties should such misconduct recur.
Despite the chaos, the Abia Warriors claimed victory in the game, securing a 1-0 win over their Oriental Derby rivals thanks to centre-back Collins Nwoburuoke’s crucial strike.
Abia Warriors and Rangers International have a 48-hour window to appeal the sanctions before further actions take place.
The NPFL’s firm stance emphasises the league’s commitment to maintaining discipline and fair play.
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