Oriental derby saga: Rangers awarded 3 points, fined 5 million after crowd eruption

A fiery encounter between Rangers International and Enyimba FC in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) week 35 fixture has resulted in a controversial decision by the league board.

The match was called off prematurely following a late penalty awarded to Rangers, which angered Enyimba players and supporters who protested the decision. Enyimba players subsequently walked off the pitch, refusing to continue the game.

An investigation by the NPFL found Enyimba in breach of league regulations. The “Elephants of Aba” were fined and docked points for their part in the crowd disruption.

Rangers, while receiving a 3-0 win and being awarded 3 points, were also sanctioned for security lapses and crowd control issues. The Enugu club faces a total fine of N5 million for over-ticketing, inadequate security, ineffective crowd control, and failure to prevent unauthorized access to restricted areas.

Rangers have 48 hours to accept the decision or appeal to a disciplinary panel. An unsuccessful appeal could result in further penalties.

Breakdown of Rangers N5 Million Fine

– 2 Million for over ticketing
– 1 Million for failing to provide adequate security
– 1 Million for failing to implement crowd control measures
– 1 million for allowing unauthorized bodies to access restricted areas
– Order to implement more crowd control mechanism in subsequent games.