World soccer ruling body, FIFA, has announced that it had imposed a 150,000 Swiss Franc fine on Nigeria following the unruly behaviour of her fans at the end of the second leg Qatar 2022 World Cup play-off between the Super Eagles and Black Stars of Ghana which was held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, on March 29.
Africa Daily News, New York reports that the fine is about $154,128.75 or ₦63,992,404 in Nigerian Naira.
Recall that there was a reported breakdown of law and order after the encounter as the Black Stars edged Nigeria out of the Qatar 2022 race on the away goals rule.
The match ended 1-1 but the two had earlier played out a barren draw in the first leg in Ghana.
Video clips from the stadium showed that furious fans invaded the field and damaged facilities after the match.
Many analysts went on to point out that the anger expressed by the unruly fans were accumulated anger over poverty levels in the West African country which has made life hellish for most Nigerians.
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee said there was a lack of order and security at the match venue.
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The disciplinary overview document stated that there was a “failure to implement 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.”
Apart from the 150,000 CHF fine, Nigeria will also play its next home match without fans.
Many other countries were also sanctioned for various infractions during the World Cup qualifiers.
According to the document, the decisions were based on the specific circumstances of each case, adding that some of the decisions may be subject to appeal.
Africa Daily News, New York reports that the Nigeria Football Federation is yet to react to the sanctions.
