Wikki Tourists Hit with Heavy Penalties After Chaos in Promotion Playoff

Wikki Tourists Hit with Heavy Penalties After Chaos in Promotion Playoff

By Niyi Busari 

Wikki Tourists Football Club of Bauchi has been sanctioned by the Nigeria National League (NNL) with fines totaling ₦3.75 million following a series of violent and disorderly incidents during their 2024/2025 Super 8 playoff match against Warri Wolves FC, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The match, designated as Game No. 13 in the promotion playoffs, was held on July 12, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba. The NNL described the conduct of Wikki Tourists’ supporters and club officials as "unruly" and "below standard," citing a breakdown of discipline both during and after the match.

In an official communication addressed to the Bauchi State Football Association and Wikki Tourists FC—signed by the NNL’s Chief Operating Officer, Danlami Alanana—the league documented several serious infractions. These included the throwing of objects at match officials, encroachment onto the field of play by fans, and damage to stadium property.

Chaos erupted at the final whistle, when Wikki Tourists supporters reportedly stormed the pitch in an attempt to confront referees and league staff. The pitch invasion caused widespread panic, disrupted the matchday protocol, and endangered players, officials, and spectators, including high-ranking dignitaries present at the venue.

The NNL cited Articles 16.1.1 and 27.1 of its operational regulations in levying the following fines:

₦1,000,000 for general disturbances caused by club officials and fans.

₦2,000,000 for intimidation, harassment, object-throwing, and pitch invasion.

₦750,000 for vandalism of stadium infrastructure, including pitch-side panels and advertising materials.

Wikki Tourists FC has been given 24 hours to either accept the sanctions or file a formal appeal.

“The actions of your supporters really jeopardized the beauty and glamour of a reputable final of a competition of that magnitude,” Alanana stated in a strongly worded disciplinary notice.

The incident casts a shadow over what was intended to be a prestigious and professionally staged finale to the NNL Super 8, a critical playoff series that determines promotion to the Nigerian top flight.