By Abiodun Adewale
Newly promoted Nigeria Professional Football League side, Bayelsa United, have been docked three points and three goals as well by the Interim Management Committee of the league following breaches of the NPFL framework in their 1-1 draw against Doma United on Wednesday in Yenagoa.
The club was also handed a fine of N1,750,000 for three different breaches which led to an attack on match officials after the game while they have also been mandated to play subsequent home games at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, behind closed-doors.
In a statement signed by the Head of Operations of the league, Davison Owumi, the club was punished for failing to provide adequate security for match officials before and after the game and also failed to restrict access of unauthorised persons to restricted areas.
“You are in breach of Rule B8.21 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Premier Football League, in that, Wednesday 1st of February, 2023, in the course of match Day 5 Fixture: Bayelsa United vs. Doma United, you failed to provide adequate security for the match officials before, during and after a match; which resulted in the assault of the match official,” the statement read in part.
The IMC also ordered the immediate prosecution of the ultra, Joseph Zidougha aka One Man Riot, who was arrested in connection with the assault on the official.
Meanwhile, the club through their official Twitter handle, confirmed the arrest of Zidougha but claimed he has no connection with the club.
“The hoodlum, Joseph Odede popularly known as One Man Riot was apprehended by the police immediately after the match and he is currently in police custody following the ungodly act by the tout who is known in Nigeria for such behavior.
“The tout attacked the match official outside the stadium. He has no connection with Bayelsa United fans. Further punishment on the brigand would be announced by the management of Bayelsa United who are not happy with his uncivilized and barbaric act,” the club posted on Thursday.
Bayelsa United sit 8th in their group and the points deduction would see their five points in five games reduced to two points.
Source: The Punch
