NPFL sanctions Rivers United over blocked live broadcast

The Nigeria Premier Football League has issued a suspended N15 million fine and a potential three-point and three-goal deduction to Rivers United. This disciplinary action follows the club's decision to block live broadcast access during their matchday 11 fixture against Rangers International.

NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, stated that the club violated league regulations by denying broadcast partners entry to the stadium. The league noted that such actions undermine commercial agreements and damage the integrity of the competition.

According to the league, the sanctions are currently suspended but will be activated if the club repeats the offense during the current season. The decision cited specific league frameworks that grant broadcast rights owners unfettered access to all venues.

Rivers United acknowledged receiving the decision through their media director, Charles Mayuku. The club stated that their actions were intended to ensure match order and protect stakeholder interests, while also calling for a more equitable distribution of live coverage among all 20 clubs.

The ruling has faced criticism from observers who argue the punishment is inconsistent compared to sanctions applied to other teams. Critics pointed to the disparity between this suspended penalty and a N2 million fine previously handed to Abia Warriors for a similar disruption.

In its official communication, the league emphasized that venue access is a mandatory requirement. "Access by the league’s broadcast partners to league venues is a regulatory requirement and not a matter subject to the discretion or approval of individual clubs," the statement added.

The league also warned that "in view of the seriousness of this incident, the league hereby issues Rivers United FC a formal and final warning and places the prescribed sanctions under suspension."