The Nigeria National League (NNL) imposed a N4.3 million penalty on Gateway United on Friday following a violent outbreak during their recent fixture against Smart City FC. NNL Chief Operating Officer Danlami Alanana confirmed the disciplinary action in an official statement, citing multiple violations of the league’s regulatory framework.
The incident occurred at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, where supporters and club officials reportedly targeted match officials after the game concluded in a 1-1 draw.
League authorities identified Gateway FC’s Toyin Jimoh as a primary instigator who threatened officials prior to the match, thereby fostering a volatile environment. Consequently, the NNL suspended Jimoh for four matches and ordered Gateway United to play their next two home games at a neutral venue in Ekiti State. The total financial penalty covers various infractions, including N1 million for pitch encroachment, N3 million for the physical assault on referees, and N300,000 for medical costs incurred by the injured officials.
The NNL has granted Gateway United management a 72-hour window to identify and surrender every individual involved in the attack. Failure to cooperate with this directive will trigger additional severe sanctions against the club. This decisive move underscores the league’s commitment to eradicating hooliganism and ensuring the safety of match personnel across the division.
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