The Nigeria Premier Football League has handed Bendel Insurance head coach Kennedy Boboye a 17-match ban for gross misconduct. The experienced tactician was also fined ₦2 million for the same offence, which occurred during Bendel Insurance's 2-2 draw with Plateau United. The NPFL ruled that Boboye's behavior towards a match official went against the principles of fair play and discipline.
Bendel Insurance was also charged for breaching the NPFL framework and rules in the matchday 32 encounter. The club was fined ₦2 million for failing to provide adequate security, and an additional ₦1 million for unsporting behavior. Furthermore, the club was fined ₦2 million for detaining match officials for 40 minutes after the game. As a result, Bendel Insurance will play their next three home matches behind closed doors.
When Kennedy Boboye is banned for 17 matches, that means Bendel Insurance will have to navigate a significant portion of the season without their head coach. This ban, combined with the fines and closed-door matches, will severely impact the team's performance and morale. The NPFL's strict punishment suggests that the league is taking a strong stance on misconduct, and teams will have to adapt to maintain discipline. This development could have significant implications for the team's position in the league table.