Warri Wolves have said they will appeal the fines given to them by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a fan attacked a referee during their match against Kano Pillars.
The club wants the league to be lenient. They pointed out their efforts to find the attacker, video proof of them trying to warn the person, and the arrest that followed.
In a message to fans, Warri Wolves said they understand the seriousness of what happened. They respect the league's rules but hope their appeal will be looked at positively.
"After the league's decision, we will file an appeal, asking for leniency because of how we tried to catch the suspect, the video showing our warning to the person, and the arrest that took place," the club said.
They asked fans to stay calm and united while waiting for the appeal's outcome.
The NPFL fined Warri Wolves after they were found guilty of not providing enough security and allowing unauthorized access to restricted areas during the match. The incident happened after their game against Kano Pillars on Sunday when a fan reportedly hit the match officials. The second assistant referee got hurt and was bleeding from the nose.
The league fined Warri Wolves a total of ₦4.25 million. This includes ₦2 million for not providing enough security, ₦2 million for the assault on the referee, and ₦250,000 to help cover medical costs for the injured assistant referee.
Additionally, the club lost three points and three goals from their total score. Warri Wolves also has to play their next three home games without fans.
The league has asked the club to find and present the person who attacked the referee and show proof of the legal action against him within seven days. Warri Wolves has 48 hours from when they were notified of the fines to file their appeal.
Warri Wolves said losing points will greatly impact their chances in the league this season if it stays.
"If the points loss is upheld, Warri Wolves will go from 12 points to nine points and drop from 14th to 17th place on the league table," the club said.
This drop would put more pressure on the team as they try to do better in the 2026/27 season.
While they expressed sadness over the situation, Warri Wolves said the team's name and reputation are bigger than what one person does.
"This is a tough time for us, but we ask our fans to stay calm, united, and supportive. Warri Wolves is bigger than any one person, administration, coach, or player. It is a legacy we must all protect," the statement said.
The club hopes the league will fairly consider their appeal, mentioning the actions they took to catch the suspect after the incident.
If the appeal is successful, it could change the sporting penalties they face, but this depends on the league's review.
Warri Wolves ended by asking fans to keep supporting the team while this process continues.
"As we wait for the appeal's results, let us continue to stand behind Warri Wolves, The Seasiders," the club said.
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