By Oluyemi Ogunseyin
The head coach of Remo Stars, Daniel Ogumodede, has been fined N250,000 by the organisers of the Naija Super 8 for inappropriate conduct during the final match on Sunday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.
Remo Stars lost the final match to Sporting Lagos via penalty shootouts after both teams ended regular time with a 1-1 draw.
Organisers of the tournament, Flykite Productions, in a statement on Monday said the fine is on account of Ogumodede’s decision to order his players off the pitch over an officiating call he disagreed with.
“We find unacceptable the conduct of Mr. Daniel Ogumodede, head coach of Remo Stars, in ordering his players to leave the pitch in protest against an officiating decision in the final match of Naija Super 8,” Flykite Productions said.
“His conduct, which displeased many top football authorities in attendance, was witnessed by a continent-wide audience watching on television.
“While we understand that there may be grounds for disagreeing with refereeing decisions, ordering a pitch walk-off is an inappropriate way to address such.
“The Rules and Regulations document handed to every participating club states the process for disputing such calls and does not include leaving the pitch in protest.
“Mr. Ogumodede’s club acknowledged the receipt of the document, which also prescribes sanctions for officials deemed by the Naija Super 8 Technical Advisory to have erred.
“Had the players not shown maturity, which Mr. Ogumodede should epitomise, the tournament would have been brought to an inconclusive endand into disrepute as well creates a potential for fan violence.
“In view of this, we have imposed a fine of N250, 000 on Mr. Ogumodede for his inappropriate conduct.”
Naija Super 8 was held from 7-16 July, with the final match drawing an attendance figure that many observers said they have not seen in ages.