Gateway United bags NNL fine and ban from Benin

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Gateway United Football Club of Abeokuta has been banished to Benin by the Nigeria National League (NNL) for violating the league’s security rules. The decision comes after fans of the Abeokuta side unleashed violence on the center referee following their goalless draw against Ikorodu United on Saturday.

The NNL has not taken this incident lightly, imposing a banishment on Gateway United and fine of N1 million for their actions. Additionally, the club is required to cover the medical expenses of the referee, totaling N100,000. Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, Chief Operating Officer of NNL, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the club must identify and prosecute the fans responsible for the attack or face further sanctions.

As a result of this disciplinary action, Gateway United will now have to play their remaining home matches at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin. This means that both Crown FC and Osun United will face the Abeokuta side in unfamiliar territory as the season progresses.

The moment he (Gateway United FC fan) initiate the referee attack against Ikorodu City and others such as some players and some fans follow suit.

This is disgrace to Nigeria second tier league. pic.twitter.com/Ie4wW21JLG

— SMD Sports (@SowoleMoshood1) April 13, 2024

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Currently, Gateway United sits in 5th place in Conference C of the NNL with 23 points, while Ikorodu City leads the log with 27 points. The banishment to Benin serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining discipline and respect within the sport of football.

Speaking on the incident, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman expressed the league’s stance on ensuring the safety and integrity of matches, stating, “Violence has no place in football and the actions of Gateway United’s fans are unacceptable. We hope this decision serves as a deterrent to others and emphasises the importance of respecting the officials and the rules of the game.”

In response to the banishment, Gateway United officials have expressed their regret over the incident and are committed to cooperating with the league’s directives. Club spokesperson, Mr. Adeola Adeyemi, issued a statement saying, “We deeply apologize for the behavior of our fans and accept the consequences imposed by the NNL. We will work diligently to identify and punish those responsible for the attack on the referee.”

The move to Benin presents a new challenge for Gateway United, who will have to adjust to playing in a different environment for the remainder of the season. It remains to be seen how the team will respond to this setback and whether they can rally together to overcome the obstacles in their path.