STADIUM BAN: Sunshine Stars to abide by LMC's sanction

By Akeem Lawal

THE management of Sunshine Stars of Akure has notified the fans of the club to stay away from the Ondo State Sports Complex when they host Enyimba FC in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 21 on Sunday.

The Akure based side has has been directed by the League Management Company (LMC) to play its NPFL home matches behind closed doors indefinitely as part of punishment measures leveled against the team following the unrest that ensued after the Sunshine Stars FC - Lobi Stars Week 20 NPFL game on the 21st of May at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

Sunshine Stars were also fined a total of N5m and a suspended three points’ deduction following findings that the clubs supporters encroached on the field of play, threw objects on to the field and assaulted the match officials in their match against Lobi Stars.

The Owena Waves said only match officials on duty will be allowed into the stadium, while journalists wishing to cover the game should contact the Media Officer of the club, Chris Okunnuwa for accreditation. 

“In bid to comply and implement the LMC order as a disciplined and law abiding side, the club hereby informs the general public particularly the fans and spectators that from our next NPFL match (Sunshine Stars FC - Eyimba FC) on Sunday 28th May 2017 the doors will be closed to all on our home matches, with the exemption of officials on match duties. Kindly know that the restriction will be in place until the authority directs otherwise.

“Also in view of the above, journalists who are recognised as key stakeholders of the game are hereby informed to contact Sunshine Stars FC media department with means of identification not later than 11 am on every match day at home starting with the next tie against Enyimba FC on Sunday 28th May for accreditation and pass,” the club said in a statement.

Photo: LMC media