The Nigeria National League (NNL) has issued severe penalties against Bichi First FC and Gombe United for various regulatory infractions that occurred during recent league outings. In a decisive ruling, Bichi First FC has been stripped of three points and three goals following the abandonment of their fixture against Adamawa United. The league’s governing body cited a fundamental breach of competition rules after the Kano-based side staged a mid-match protest that ultimately forced the game’s termination.
The controversy erupted during the final stages of the match when Adamawa United found the back of the net. Disputing the official’s call, Bichi First personnel refused to resume play and subsequently vacated the pitch. Despite a 17-minute grace period provided by the referee for the team to return, the game was officially called off. Beyond the loss of points, the NNL has imposed a financial penalty of N2 million on the club for their unsportsmanlike conduct.
Simultaneously, Gombe United faces a steep fine of N2,390,000 following multiple violations during their Matchday 11 encounter with Yobe Desert Stars. The “Savannah Scorpions” were penalized for pitch encroachment and deliberate attempts to obstruct the live digital broadcast of the game. Furthermore, the club was found responsible for the destruction of equipment belonging to the league’s streaming partner, Sportslight Hub Crew. As a result of these disruptions, Gombe United has been ordered to host their next home fixture behind closed doors.
Both Bichi First FC and Gombe United maintain the statutory right to contest these sanctions through the official appeals process. However, the NNL’s swift action reinforces its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game and protecting the technical infrastructure essential for the league’s growing media presence.
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