By Akinwale Kasali
The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, is to pay a whopping N88 Million to the World Soccer Governing Body, FIFA, over the unruly behaviour of its fans.
FIFA wielded the big stick on Nigeria, bringing an end to the anxiety that gripped the nation over the possible sanctions the nation would face for the unruly behaviour and invasion of the Moshood Kashimawo Abiola Stadium, Abuja, by fans during the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs between the Super Eagles and the Black Stars of Ghana.
Irate fans had invaded the pitch after the final whistle, destroying the Stadium equipment following the failure of the Super Eagles to qualify for the World Showpiece after a 1-1 aggregate score line that saw the Ghanaians qualifying at the expense of Nigerian on away goal rules.
The wanton destruction by the disappointed fans led to a stampede, leaving many injured.
FIFA, in a dispatch letter by its Disciplinary Committee, lamented the poor organisation of the match, as well as lack of order and security at the venue of the all-important encounter.
According to the latest FIFA Disciplinary Report published on its website Monday morning, Nigeria was found guilty of not “implementing existing safety rules and failure to ensure that law and order are maintained in the stadium, invasion of the field of play and throwing of objects.”
The World Football Governing Body also handed Nigeria a fine of N88 Million and a one-match behind closed doors.
