Wikki, Kaduna disappoint NPL

Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has  expressed its displeasure over unruly behaviour of Wikki Tourists FC fans shortly after a league match with Sunshine Stars FC last weekend at Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.

At the end of the game, the Center Referee, Otujeme Joachim, a Grade 1 Referee from Abia Referees Council and the Assistant Referee II (Grade 1) FCT Referees Council were physically assaulted. The NPL considered the act as barbaric and unethical.

The release signed by Tunji Babalola, Head of Competition, however directed Wikki Tourists FC to identify the perpetrators for possible prosecution while the club’s subsequent home matches shall be played behind closed doors until the perpetrators are identified.

Wikki Tourists FC is also expected to pay a fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000.00) only. The payment should be made before Wikki Tourists FC next home game.

Elsewhere in Aba, the Goalkeeper of Kaduna United FC, Pius Ibrahim with Jersey No. 12 exhibited gross indiscipline during a match between Enyimba Int’l FC and Kaduna United FC on Sunday 21st February, 2010 at Enyimba International FC Stadium.

Pius Ibrahim conduct is unbecoming of a professional as there was a vicious attempt by the player to attack the Center Referee  after receiving an expulsion card (red card) for unsporting behaviour. The incident  held up the game for few minutes thereby bringing the game into disrepute.

The NPL believes that, regardless of the decisions of the Match officials, no player or official is allowed to use foul language on the Match officials talk less of physical assault and it will be recalled that, this particular match was live on Super Sport.

In view of this disgraceful conduct, Pius Ibrahim is hereby suspended indefinitely with N100,000.00 fine. The NPL is empowered by Article 5.6 of the rules and regulations. NPL however enjoins all players and officials to desist from act that could bring the game into disrepute.