NLO Hands Green Beret FC Heavy Punishment Over Referee Attack

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has slammed Green Beret FC with a ₦1.5 million fine and suspended the club and its officials for two seasons following an assault on match officials after their game against Zamfara United.

The league announced the disciplinary measures on Friday after reviewing the incident, which reportedly left one referee injured and bleeding.

In a statement, the NLO strongly condemned the violence, describing it as a serious offence that damages the image of football and threatens the safety of those involved in the game.

According to the league body, Green Beret FC had previously been linked with a similar incident last season, making the latest case even more concerning.

As part of the sanctions, the NLO overturned the result of the match and awarded Zamfara United a 3-0 victory instead of the original 2-0 scoreline.

The league also ordered Green Beret FC to pay ₦1 million for misconduct and an additional ₦500,000 to cover the medical treatment of the injured referees. Both payments must be made within seven days.

In addition, the club and all its officials have been banned from taking part in Nationwide League One activities for the next two seasons.

The NLO further directed Green Beret FC to identify and submit the names of the individuals accused of attacking and stabbing the referee within 48 hours.

The league reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, safety and fair play, warning that any act of violence will continue to attract severe punishment.