Nigeria: Rivers United handed final warning by NPFL over broadcast dispute

Rivers United have been handed a final warning by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after refusing to grant the league’s broadcast partners access to their stadium for live coverage of their Matchday 11 fixture against Rangers International.

The Port Harcourt-based club have been hit with suspended sanctions, including a fine of ₦15 million (approximately $11,140), a three-point deduction and a three-goal deduction.

However, the punishments will only be enforced if Rivers United repeat the offence during the ongoing NPFL season.

The disciplinary action follows the club’s refusal to allow the league’s broadcast partners into their stadium to televise their Matchday 11 encounter against Rangers International.

The decision has put Rivers United on notice, with any further breach of the league’s broadcast regulations potentially carrying significant consequences for their campaign.

The proposed three-point deduction could have a major impact on the club’s position in the league standings, while the additional three-goal penalty could further affect their goal difference.

The NPFL’s decision underlines its determination to protect the commercial and broadcast arrangements of the competition as it continues efforts to improve the league’s visibility and reach.

Rivers United will now be expected to comply fully with the league’s broadcast requirements for the remainder of the season to avoid the activation of the suspended sanctions.