The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has fined Rangers International FC N5 million following multiple infractions during their Match Day 35 fixture against Enyimba International FC at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Sunday, June 9.

In a letter dated June 10, NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi outlined the breaches committed by Rangers during the abandoned match.

The game, which was highly anticipated, was halted deep into stoppage time after fans invaded the pitch. With the match still goalless, referee John Ojeleye awarded a penalty to Rangers. This decision prompted away fans to storm the pitch, leading to the match’s abandonment.

In its ruling, the NPFL cited several violations. Foremost, Rangers was found guilty of over-ticketing the match, causing overcrowding in violation of Rule B15.24. This infraction incurred a N2 million fine.

Additionally, Rangers were fined N1 million for inadequate and ineffective security measures, contravening Rule B13.52. They also breached Rule B13.52.1 by failing to implement effective crowd control measures, resulting in another N1 million fine.

Further, the club was penalized N1 million for not preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas, another violation of Rule B13.52.

In total, Rangers International FC faces a N5 million fine for these infractions. The NPFL has also mandated the club to enhance its crowd control mechanisms for future home games.

Rangers have 48 hours to accept the sanctions or face a disciplinary panel. Failure to comply or submitting a frivolous appeal may lead to additional penalties under Rule E1 of the NPFL’s Frameworks and Rules.