League Imposes Harsh Sanctions Following Assault on Bayelsa Queens Players and Officials – Safety Remains Top Priority.

Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL)

The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has imposed a N2.5 million fine on Ibom Angels and mandated that the club play its next three home fixtures behind closed doors following serious crowd violence after their Matchday 5 clash against Bayelsa Queens in Uyo on Wednesday, January 8, 2026.

Ibom Angels NWFL fine

The sanctions were announced on Thursday after the league reviewed detailed match reports and video evidence from the incident at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

According to the NWFL ruling, Ibom Angels were found guilty of breaching regulations on assault, intimidation, offensive conduct, and failure to ensure adequate security. The breakdown of the fine includes:

  • N1.5 million for contravening Article 26.1 (assault, intimidation, and offensive conduct)
  • N1 million for bringing the game into disrepute and inadequate security measures

In addition, the club must host their upcoming home games against Ekiti Queens, Edo Queens, and Naija Ratels (scheduled for January and February) without spectators, in line with Article 16.4 of the NWFL regulations.

NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi emphasized the league’s zero-tolerance policy on violence.

“The safety of players, officials and match personnel is non-negotiable,” she stated. “What occurred in Uyo represents a serious breach of our regulations and the values of the NWFL. We will take stiffer actions against any club whose supporters engage in violence or conduct capable of bringing the league into disrepute.”

The league has warned that any non-compliance or repeat incidents could result in harsher penalties, including extended venue bans or further disciplinary measures.

The match itself ended in a 2-1 victory for Bayelsa Queens, who continue to lead the NWFL table. Ojiyovwi Kesiena opened the scoring in the 20th minute, assisted by Janet Akekoromowei, before Janet doubled the lead in the 39th minute. Helen Daniel pulled one back for Ibom Angels in the 58th minute, but the Prosperity Girls held firm for the full three points.

Trouble erupted after the final whistle as home supporters invaded the pitch and attacked Bayelsa Queens players and officials. Players ran for safety while head coach Whyte Ogbonda was assaulted while trying to protect his team, reportedly sustaining a bloodied mouth in the process.

The ugly scenes drew widespread condemnation across social media, with fans calling for severe punishment:

  • Charles Odo: “Hopefully they are punished so hard, the club goes into bankruptcy. Next time, they will keep their fans in check.”
  • Adeyemi Oluwabusayomi: “Just cancel them from the league. Else whatever punishment is given, this will still repeat itself.”
  • Michael Polycarp: “Why would grown as* men attempt or try to attack a team of ladies?”
  • Taiwo Ajibola: “Reason Nigerian league can’t be rated.”
  • Abieyuwa Obayangbona: “Disgraceful.”

The incident has once again spotlighted the urgent need for improved crowd control, security, and fan education in Nigerian women’s football.