Warri Wolves appeal NPFL sanctions over referee assault

Warri Wolves

Warri Wolves have announced plans to appeal the sanctions imposed on them by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following the assault of a match official after their fixture against Kano Pillars.

The club said it would seek leniency, citing efforts to identify the suspect, video evidence showing its attempts to caution the individual, and the subsequent arrest.

In a statement to supporters, Warri Wolves acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and said it respected the league’s disciplinary process, while remaining hopeful that its appeal would receive favourable consideration.

“Following the league’s decision, an appeal will be filed, appealing for leniency in view of the efforts made by the club to apprehend the suspect, the available video evidence showing the club’s caution to the individual, and the subsequent arrest of the suspect,” the club said.

The club urged supporters to remain calm and united while awaiting the outcome of the appeal.

The NPFL sanctioned Warri Wolves after finding the club guilty of breaching the 2026/27 NPFL Framework and Rules for inadequate security and unauthorised access to restricted areas.

The incident occurred after the club’s fixture against Kano Pillars on Sunday, when a supporter allegedly assaulted the appointed match officials. The second assistant referee reportedly sustained a nose injury and was left bleeding.

The league imposed a total fine of ₦4.25 million on Warri Wolves, comprising ₦2 million for failing to provide adequate security, ₦2 million for assaulting a match official, and ₦250,000 in compensation to the affected assistant referee for medical treatment.

The sanctions also include a deduction of three points and three goals from the club’s accrued tally. In addition, Warri Wolves were ordered to play their next three home matches behind closed doors.

The league further directed the club to identify and produce the alleged assailant, and to provide evidence of his prosecution, within seven days. The NPFL also gave the club 48 hours from the date of notification of the sanctions to lodge an appeal.

Warri Wolves said the points deduction would have significant implications for their league campaign if it remains in force.

“If the points deduction stands, Warri Wolves will drop from 12 points to nine points and fall from 14th to 17th position on the league table,” the club said.

Such a drop would increase the pressure on the Seasiders as they seek to improve their position in the 2026/27 season.

While expressing regret over the difficult situation, Warri Wolves maintained that the club’s identity and reputation must remain above the actions of any individual.

“This is undoubtedly a difficult moment for the club, but we urge our supporters to remain calm, united and steadfast in their support. Warri Wolves is bigger than any individual, administration, coach or player. It is a legacy we must all protect,” the statement said.

The club also expressed hope that the league would consider its appeal fairly, citing the steps taken to apprehend the suspect after the incident.

The appeal, if successful, could affect the sporting consequences of the sanctions, although the outcome will depend on the league’s review.

Warri Wolves concluded by urging supporters to continue backing the team while the process runs its course.

“As we await the outcome of the appeal, let us continue to stand behind Warri Wolves — The Seasiders,” the club said.

Warri Wolves’ case comes amid a series of disciplinary actions by the NPFL during the 2026/27 season. Just last week, Doma United were sanctioned following incidents during their Matchday Nine fixture at Pantami Stadium in Gombe on 17 October.

On 1 October, Ranchers Bees were fined ₦5 million over security failures, misconduct by players and bench officials, supporters’ behaviour and the reported detention of match officials after their Matchday Six fixture against Rivers United.

Four days later, Inter Lagos received a ₦5 million fine and a three-point deduction following incidents involving match officials during their 1-1 draw with Katsina United.

Tunde Eludini is a graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Nigeria where he studied International Relations. He is a Senior Correspondent coordinating the sports section for PREMIUM TIMES. Twitter: @tundeyeludini