NWFL Fines Heartland Queens N1 Million for Assaulting Match Officials in Premiership Game

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has taken decisive disciplinary action against Heartland Queens Football Club, slamming the team with a hefty N1 million fine following a troubling incident involving the physical assault of match officials. The incident occurred during a heated 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership fixture against Remo Stars Ladies on Tuesday, April 16, 2025, at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Imo State.

In an official statement released on Friday, April 18, 2025, the NWFL strongly condemned the violent conduct displayed by some officials and supporters of Heartland Queens. The league management described the assault as a grave violation of the league’s code of conduct and the core principles of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for match officials.

According to Modupe Shabi, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the NWFL, the disciplinary decision followed a meticulous review of the match officials’ reports and additional investigations. The findings confirmed that individuals associated with the Owerri-based club engaged in unruly, threatening, and physically abusive behavior against match officials during Match No. 92 of the ongoing NWFL Premiership season.

Shabi emphasized that the league invoked Article 26.1 of the NWFL regulations, which stipulates stringent penalties for any form of assault—whether physical, verbal, through intimidation, or offensive gestures—committed against match officials or any persons involved in the conduct of a match.

Citing the league’s rulebook, Shabi stated:
“Any player, official, or individual who assaults a match official or engages in behavior considered abusive, intimidating, or offensive during the course of a match shall be liable to a fine of N1,000,000.00 (One Million Naira) and potential banishment from league activities.”

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In addition to the financial sanction, the NWFL also issued a stern warning that similar offenses could attract further disciplinary measures, including a one-year ban on the use of the stadium where such misconduct occurs. The Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri now risks facing future restrictions if incidents of violence are repeated.

The league management has urged Heartland Queens to take immediate steps to educate their club officials, coaching crew, and supporters about the importance of upholding discipline, fair play, and mutual respect for match officials. The NWFL stressed that the punishment serves as a deterrent and a clear message of its zero-tolerance policy on violence, misconduct, and actions that threaten the safety and integrity of the beautiful game.

This fine is part of a wider clampdown by the Nigeria Women Football League aimed at curbing rising cases of hooliganism, match disruptions, and violence against referees and officials during league matches. The NWFL reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting match officials and preserving the values of fair competition in Nigerian women’s football.

As the 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership season progresses, stakeholders and football enthusiasts have been reminded of the collective responsibility to foster a safe, competitive, and respectful football environment for players, officials, fans, and everyone involved in the game.