The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has confirmed that Beyond Limits Football Academy of Ikenne, whose slot will be taken over by Heartland, can not feature in the 2024/2025 season, www.aclsports.com reports.
As explained by the league body in a statement on Tuesday, the above decision was reached as there is one ownership of Beyond Limits Football Academy and Remo Stars, a club already competing in the NPFL, which constitutes a breach of Rule B11.4 of the NPFL Framework and Rules.
Consequently, the slot occupied by the 2023/24 Nigeria National League champions Beyond Limits has now been relinquished and subsequently handed over to Heartland FC.
“This decision aligns with Rule A5.2, which stipulates the criteria for club participation. Heartland FC met the requirements set by the NPFL board and was the only relegated club to express interest in filling the vacancy,” the statement from the league body said.
The NPFL also stated that, contrary to rumours that the slot was bought, there was nothing as such because it is explicitly prohibited in the league.
“We also need to clarify that there was no slot buying transaction, as such practices are explicitly prohibited under NPFL rules. The NPFL remains committed to upholding a fair and competitive league.
“While the NPFL rules do not explicitly foresee every scenario, the board has exercised its discretion, as permitted under the league’s governing documents, to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the league and its stakeholders.
“The NPFL will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that all actions taken are in line with our commitment to fairness and the integrity of the competition,” concludes the statement.
Heartland, who now have Emmanuel Amuneke in charge, will face Enyimba in their season opener and will play their home games at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.
