The league body charged the Delta State club with failing to provide adequate and effective security, which allowed unauthorised persons to gain access to restricted areas. After the match, a Warri Wolves supporter assaulted the appointed match officials, leaving the second assistant referee with a bleeding injury to his nose.
In its ruling, the NPFL has imposed the following sanctions:
- A fine of N2 million for failure to provide adequate and effective security
- A further fine of N2 million for the assault on a match official
- A compensation payment of N250,000 to the injured assistant referee for medical treatment
- A deduction of three points and three goals from Warri Wolves’ accumulated tally
- An order that the club must play its next three home matches behind closed doors
In addition, Warri Wolves have been directed to identify the individual responsible for the assault and provide evidence of his prosecution within seven days. The club has been given 48 hours from the date of the notice to lodge an appeal against the sanctions.
The incident occurred during the league match between Warri Wolves and Kano Pillars, with the NPFL stating that the failure of the host club to maintain proper security arrangements contributed directly to the post-match violence.
The deductions will take immediate effect and are expected to impact Warri Wolves’ position in the NPFL standings. The club must also ensure full compliance with the closed-door order for its next three home fixtures.
The NPFL emphasised that the sanctions were imposed in line with the league’s framework and rules governing security and the protection of match officials.