Sporting Lagos coach, Jeffery Buter, has been fined N500,000 and cautioned against making unsubstantiated public statements concerning the EuroMatchNPFL and its match officials.
The sanction followed an inquest conducted on Wednesday into comments made by Buter during a press interview after Sporting Lagos’ Lagos Derby against Ikorodu City on September 30.
During the proceedings, the coach reportedly admitted that he was wrong in making the comments that formed the basis of the inquiry.
The panel said the relatively lenient sanction was largely influenced by Buter’s admission of error and his limited experience as a coach in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The league authorities also used the opportunity to caution coaches and club officials against making reckless public statements capable of damaging the reputation and credibility of the EuroMatchNPFL.
Coaches and club officials were advised to make use of established dispute-resolution mechanisms whenever they have complaints concerning officiating, league administration or other matters.
The authorities stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of the league and maintaining confidence among clubs, players, officials, supporters and other stakeholders.
Buter has been given seven working days within which to pay the N500,000 fine.
Failure to comply with the directive within the stipulated period could attract additional and more stringent sanctions.
The league further urged all participating clubs and their officials to conduct themselves responsibly and channel grievances through the appropriate official platforms.
