Oluwashina Okeleji BBC Sport, Lagos

Nigeria's top league has been plagued by violence

Akwa United have been given the heaviest fine in the history of Nigeria football following violence which led to the death of three fans.

The Nigerian Football League (NFL) fined the club US$10,000 and banned them from using their Uyo Stadium for three years following the violence last month.

Akwa United fans went on the rampage on 25 March when referee Felicia Okwugba awarded Enyimba a penalty in the dying minutes of the league game, with the home side leading 2-1.

Enyimba were declared winners and Akwa United's assistant coach Emma Deuesehoe suspended for one year for his role in the incident.

According to the NFL's disciplinary committee, Akwa United were found guilty of failing to provide adequate security at the venue.

"Even though these punishments will not bring back the lives lost in that ugly incident, this is a resounding statement that violence will not be tolerated in our game," NFL executive secretary Salihu Abubakar BBC Sport.

"It's a shame that some so-called fans are not allowing our beloved fair play policy reign in the game of football."

The move by the NFL is the latest attempt to try and crack down on crowd trouble in Nigeria's top league.

Meanwhile, Niger Tornadoes have been banned from using their Mamman Kontagora Stadium for one year.

This was after fans of the club assaulted the referee in their game against visiting side Kwara United on 28 March.

Niger Tornadoes were also fined US$3,000 and declared losers of the league game.

The NFL also banned seven players of first division side Grays FC, for one year, for their assault on a referee.

The incident occurred during their league game against Babanawa FC in Oshogbo last month.