In-form newcomers Ikorodu City have been handed a stern punishment by the NPFL due to the unacceptable behaviour of their fans during the 1-1 draw with Remo Stars in the Southwest derby on Sunday.

The disciplinary action comes after a thorough investigation into the incidents that marred their recent NPFL match, following the assault on Remo Stars assistant coach, Mr Sulaimon Kamil.

The statement from the governing body read: “You are in breach of Rule B13.52 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Premier Football League, in that on Sunday, 15 December 2024, during the Match Day 17 fixture: Ikorodu City vs. Remo Stars, you failed to provide adequate and effective security, which resulted in unauthorised persons gaining access to restricted areas and the assault of Remo Stars Coach, Mr Sulaimon Kamil.”

“You are in breach of Rule B13.18 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Premier Football League, in that on Sunday, 15 December 2024, during the Match Day 17 fixture: Ikorodu City vs. Remo Stars, unauthorised persons encroached onto the field of play.”

“You are in breach of Rule C9 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Premier Football League, in that on Sunday, 15 December 2024, during the Match Day 17 fixture: Ikorodu City vs. Remo Stars, you failed to ensure the proper conduct of your team and supporters, which resulted in the assault on Remo Stars Coach, Mr Sulaimon Kamil.”

“Consequently, the NPFL hereby imposes on you the following sanctions: a fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) for failure to provide adequate and effective security.”

“A fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) for encroachment onto the field of play. A fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) for failure to ensure the proper conduct of your team and supporters.”

“An order to identify and prosecute the individual(s) involved in the assault on Remo Stars Coach, Mr Sulaimon Kamil. A report detailing the progress of this action must be submitted to the NPFL within seven (7) working days of the date of this notice,” and “an order to close the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium to fans for the next two consecutive home games.”

The statement further added that the Oga Boys “have 48 hours to either submit to the summary jurisdiction and the sanctions contained herein or elect to be dealt with by a disciplinary panel.”

Closing the Mobolaji Johnson Arena will be a huge blow to Ikorodu City, as the stadium—boosted by the fans pushing the players on—has become a fortress and a tough atmosphere for away teams. However, it is expected that the sanctions will prompt Ikorodu City and all other NPFL teams to take security with utmost seriousness.