NPL Ban Warri Wolves’ Ojo, Warns Zamfara Fans

Warri Wolves’ defender, Oni Ojo, has been slapped with a three-match ban by the Nigeria Premier League (NPL). The player has also been hit with a N100,000 fine, following his conduct during Sunday’s NPL game between Heartland FC and his club.

Ojo was involved in an altercation with the centre referee, Gabriel Solomon, in the second half of the game shortly after a penalty had been awarded to Heartland.

He was subsequently issued a red card in the feisty game which ended 0-0.

Acting chairman of the NPL, Shehu Gusau, said the punishment was meted out to the left-back to serve as a deterrent to other players in the league, who did not show the necessary respect for match officials.

“I saw the incident on television and it was very appalling. We have to take action swiftly so that other players who do not show respect to match officials will desist from such practices,” Gusau told SuperSport.com.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Premier League has issued a warning to Zamfara United supporters to desist from causing trouble any time the team is playing at home.

Zamfara got the warning for acts capable of bringing the game to disrepute from their supporters during the match against Enyimba.

Despite leading against the Premier League defending champions, the fans pelted the referee with sachets of water.

“NPL will not tolerate a situation where visiting teams and match officials are intimidated before, during and after matches.

“And if Zamfara United is found guilty of such act in their subsequent home games, NPL will take more drastic measure against the team, warned acting Executive Secretary, Tunji Babalola.