The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has sanctioned Bendel Insurance FC and their head coach Kennedy Boboye for multiple breaches of the league’s Framework and Rules during their Matchday 32 fixture against Plateau United FC.
The match, played on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, ended in a 2-2 draw but was overshadowed by incidents involving supporters and match officials.
According to the NPFL, Bendel Insurance failed to provide adequate and effective security, leading to unauthorized persons gaining access to restricted areas. The club was also found guilty of supporter misconduct, with fans displaying unsporting behaviour capable of bringing the game into disrepute.
Additionally, supporters were cited for failing to conduct themselves properly, resulting in the harassment of match officials after the game. The situation escalated further as officials were reportedly held for about 40 minutes at the venue.
The league’s disciplinary body imposed a total fine of five million naira on the club. This includes N2 million for inadequate security, N1 million for acts that brought the game into disrepute, and N2 million for detaining match officials.
Head coach Kennedy Boboye was also punished for gross misconduct towards a match official, an act the league said contravenes the principles of fair play and discipline. He has been handed a 17-match suspension and fined N2 million.
Furthermore, Bendel Insurance, popularly known as the Benin Arsenals will play their next three home matches behind closed doors.
The NPFL reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline, safety, and professionalism across the league, warning that any actions capable of undermining the integrity of the competition will attract strict sanctions.
