Bayelsa United will be deducted three points and fined N1.7 million

Newly promoted Nigeria Professional Football League side, Bayelsa United, have been awarded three points and three goals by the league’s Interim Management Committee after breaching the NPFL framework in their 1-1 draw against Doma United on Wednesday at Yenagoa.

The club was also fined N1,750,000 for three different offenses leading to an attack on match officials after the match, while also being mandated to play subsequent home games at Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa behind closed doors.

In a statement signed by the league’s Chief of Operations Davison Owumi, the club was chastised for failing to provide adequate security for match officials before and after the match, as well as restricting unauthorized access to restricted areas.

“You are in breach of Rule B8.21 of the Nigeria Premier Football League Framework and Rules by committing on Wednesday 1 February 2023 during Match Day 5: Bayelsa United vs. Doma United failed. provide adequate security for match officials before, during and after a match; resulting in the mistreatment of the match official,” the statement read in part.

The IMC also ordered the immediate prosecution of the ultra, Joseph Zidougha aka One Man Riot, who was arrested in connection with the attack on the official.

Meanwhile, the club through their official Twitter handle, confirmed Zidougha’s arrest but claimed he has no connection with the club.

“The crook, Joseph Odede, popularly known as One Man Riot, was apprehended by the police immediately after the game and he is currently in police custody following the impious act of the tout who is known in Nigeria for such behaviour.

“The tout attacked the match official outside the stadium. He has no connection with Bayelsa United fans. The management of Bayelsa United would announce a further punishment for the highwayman, who is not happy with his uncivilized and barbaric act,” the club writes on Thursday.

Bayelsa United are eighth in their group and the points deduction would reduce their five points in five games to two points.