The Nigeria Premier Football League has handed Ranchers Bees a combined fine of ₦5 million after the club committed multiple rule violations during their Matchday 6 fixture against Rivers United.

The sanctions were outlined in a Summary Jurisdiction notice signed on September 29 by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Dr. Ayo Abdulrahman. The club was found to have breached Rules B13.52, C1.1, and C9 of the NPFL Frameworks and Rules.

Security lapses and stadium disorder

The largest single penalty — ₦2 million — was issued for a failure to maintain adequate security at the venue. Unauthorised individuals gained access to restricted areas of the stadium, breaching Rule B13.52.

A further ₦1 million was levied after Ranchers Bees failed to control players and bench officials who intimidated, threatened, and harassed the match officials on the field of play, in violation of Rule C1.1.

The club received another ₦1 million sanction under Rule C9 for failing to prevent supporters from allegedly attempting to attack the appointed match officials during the game.

The fourth and final ₦1 million fine was imposed after match officials were held hostage following the final whistle — a serious breach that the NPFL treated as a separate disciplinary matter.

Player assault investigation ordered

Beyond the financial penalties, the NPFL directed Ranchers Bees to identify — by Thursday, October 1 — the player seen on video physically assaulting a Rivers United player during the match. That individual faces further disciplinary proceedings once identified.

Appeal process and payment timeline

In line with Rule C26 of its Frameworks and Rules, the league gave Ranchers Bees two options: accept the sanctions handed down under the Summary Jurisdiction, or submit a written request within 48 hours of receiving the notice to have the case heard before a Disciplinary Panel.

All outstanding fines are payable within seven working days after the expiration of the appeal period.