Things have gone from bad to worse for relegation-threatened Sunshine Stars, after they were handed severe sanctions by the League Management Company (LMC) on Tuesday.
The sanctions come six days after the Akure-based team controversially lost 2-1 at home to league leaders Plateau United, a result which provoked angry reactions from goalkeeper David Ariyo, who assaulted an assistant referee.
Sunshine Stars have been ordered to play their home games at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, and no fans will be admitted.
In addition to the banishment, Ariyo was slapped with a 12-match suspension, while the club was also fined 1 million Naira for various other rule breaches.
The LMC statement, issuing the charge to Sunshine Stars, read: "You are in breach of Rule C9 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Professional Football League, in that on Wednesday, 7th June, 2017, in the course of your Match Day 23 fixture: Sunshine Stars FC vs Plateau United FC, you failed to control your players when they accosted the Assistant Referee and assaulted him."
The second charge brought against Sunshine Stars from the LMC stated: "You are in breach of Rule C 1.2.1.6 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Professional Football League, in that on Wednesday, 7th June, 2017, in the course of your Match Day 23 fixture: Sunshine Stars FC vs Plateau United FC, you breached the order that your match be played behind closed doors when some spectators entered the stadium and also harassed match officials."
Stars must adhere strictly to the outlined conditions from the league's governing body if they are to stand any chance of returning to their home ground, and are required to implement improved safety and security measures at the Akure Township Stadium.
Given the club's current 17th place standing on the log and their miserable recent form, they now have their work cut out to beat the drop this term.