NWFL Sanctions Ibom Angels ₦2.5m Fine, Three-Match Fan Ban

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has fined Ibom Angels FC ₦2.5 million and ordered the club to play three home matches behind closed doors following crowd violence during their Premiership clash with Bayelsa Queens in Uyo.

The sanctions, announced on Thursday, January 8, 2026, followed a review of match officials’ reports and video footage from the encounter at the Uyo Township Stadium, Akwa Ibom State.

According to the NWFL, Ibom Angels supporters invaded the pitch and assaulted players and officials of Bayelsa Queens, an action the league described as a serious breach of its regulations and fair play principles.

A breakdown of the fine shows ₦1.5 million imposed for violating Article 26.1 (assault, intimidation and offensive conduct), and ₦1 million for bringing the game into disrepute and failing to provide adequate security.

Beyond the financial penalty, the league invoked Article 16.4 to order Ibom Angels to play their next three home fixtures without spectators.

Reacting, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi said player and official safety remains non-negotiable.

“What happened in Uyo is unacceptable and a clear violation of our regulations,” Shabi said.

“The NWFL will not hesitate to impose even stiffer sanctions on any club whose supporters engage in violence or conduct capable of damaging the integrity of the league.”

The affected home matches are against Ekiti Queens, Edo Queens and Naija Ratels, scheduled for January and February.

The NWFL warned that non-compliance or a repeat of similar incidents could attract harsher penalties, including extended venue bans and further disciplinary action.