Wikki Tourists Football Club of Bauchi has appealed to the Interim Management Committee to review the sanctions imposed on the club in connection with the 2022/2023 Nigeria Professional Football League match against Bayelsa United FC. The match, which took place on April 9 at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi, was alleged to have been marred by irregularities.
The IMC penalized Wikki Tourists with a deduction of three points, a fine of N2.5 million, and ordered the closure of the stadium for NPFL matches. Mr. Balarabe Douglas, Chairman of Wikki Tourists FC, refuted the accusations by the IMC, stating that the club had provided adequate security for the match and that there was no assault on match officials.
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He explained that some fans threw sachets and plastic bottles in frustration over the poor performance of the players, but it quickly ceased. Douglas also mentioned that the club’s Technical Adviser, Abdullahi Adamu, has resigned, although the club has not yet received the resignation formally. The club appeals for a review of the sanctions, deeming them harsh and worrisome based on the explanations provided.
