Ranchers Bees hit with ₦5m fine after misconduct against Rivers United

Emmanuel Onyeacholem

Ranchers Bees FC have received a total fine of ₦5 million from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following multiple breaches during their Matchday 6 meeting with Rivers United. The league also ordered the club to identify a player caught on video physically attacking a Rivers United player, Bold Sports reports.

The Kaduna-based side entered the fixture after a 1-0 defeat to Rangers International on September 23. They then played out a goalless draw with Rivers United on September 28. The result left Ranchers Bees with seven points from six matches.

NPFL details Ranchers Bees breaches

The sanctions came through the NPFL’s Summary Jurisdiction decisions. Dr. Ayo Abdulrahman, the league’s Chief Operating Officer, signed the document on September 29. The decisions cited Rules B13.52, C1.1 and C9 of the NPFL Frameworks and Rules.

The biggest penalty stands at ₦2 million. The NPFL imposed it over inadequate security at the match. The league said unauthorised persons gained access to restricted areas of the stadium.

Ranchers Bees hit with ₦5m fine after misconduct against Rivers United

Ranchers Bees also received a ₦1 million fine under Rule C1.1. The breach involved the club’s failure to restrain some players and bench officials. According to the league, they intimidated, threatened and harassed match officials.

Another ₦1 million fine followed over supporter conduct. The NPFL said some supporters attempted to attack match officials, breaching Rule C9.

The final ₦1 million penalty relates to the holding of match officials hostage after the match. Together, the four sanctions bring the club’s total financial penalty to ₦5 million.

Ranchers Bees face further disciplinary action

The NPFL has also directed Ranchers Bees to disclose the identity of the player seen attacking a Rivers United player. The deadline given by the league is Thursday, October 1. The player could then face separate disciplinary proceedings.

Under Rule C26, Ranchers Bees have 48 hours from the notice date to accept the sanctions or request a hearing before a Disciplinary Panel. The fines become payable within seven working days after the appeal period expires.

The club’s Matchday 6 result remains a 0-0 draw, with Rivers United extending their unbeaten league start.

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Emmanuel Onyeacholem Chukwuyem is a sports journalist, football commentator, writer, and broadcaster focused on African football, delivering in-depth coverage of domestic leagues, national teams, and major international tournaments.
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