NWFL Imposes Heavy Sanctions on Osun Babes FC for Kit Violation and Match Failure
The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has levied a substantial financial penalty and a competitive points deduction against Osun Babes FC following the cancellation of their scheduled Premiership fixture. The league confirmed that the match, which was set to take place on Wednesday, February 18, at Onikan Stadium in Lagos, could not proceed due to the visiting team's failure to comply with mandatory kit regulations.
Details of the Kit Breach and Walkover Decision
According to an official statement released on Thursday, February 19, Osun Babes FC, designated as the away team, did not provide an alternative jersey set with clearly displayed player names and numbers. This occurred despite a confirmed colour clash with the home team, FC Robo Queens. League officials, acting in accordance with competition rules, subsequently awarded a walkover victory to FC Robo Queens.
NWFL Media Director Samuel Ahmadu clarified that the club's actions constituted a direct violation of Article 10.3 of the league's regulatory framework. This article explicitly requires visiting teams to utilize their second-choice colours whenever a kit conflict with the host club arises. The statement further referenced Article 10.5, which mandates that the away side must change kits if the home team is wearing its registered first-choice colours.
Additionally, the league stated that Osun Babes contravened Article 14.7 by failing to honour the fixture without presenting any acceptable explanation or evidence of force majeure circumstances.
Breakdown of the Financial and Sporting Penalties
The NWFL detailed the specific sanctions imposed on Osun Babes FC. "As stipulated by the rules, Osun Babes have been fined ₦1,000,000 for the jersey infraction and ₦1,500,000 for failing to fulfill the fixture, bringing the total sanction to ₦2,500,000," the league's statement declared. In a significant blow to the club's league standing, a three-point deduction was also enforced as part of the disciplinary measures.
League Officials Emphasize Non-Negotiable Compliance
NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi underscored the league's unwavering commitment to regulatory adherence. "The NWFL remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and compliance. Our regulations are clear, and all clubs are expected to meet their obligations fully to protect the integrity and credibility of the league," Shabi emphasized in the official communication.
The league body concluded its statement by issuing a stern reminder to all Premiership teams. Clubs were urged to strictly adhere to all operational guidelines and competition rules to avoid facing similar disciplinary actions in future fixtures. This incident highlights the NWFL's firm stance on maintaining order and professional standards within the women's football league structure.
