The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed strict penalties on Kano Pillars after violent incidents marred their Match Day 8 game against Shooting Stars at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
Chaos on the Pitch
During the match, a late equalizer by Shooting Stars sparked outrage among some Kano Pillars fans, who stormed the field and attacked referees and opposing players.
Security forces used teargas to restore order and ensure the safety of those targeted. Several Shooting Stars players sustained injuries during the chaos.
NPFL’s Response
On Monday, NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi announced the sanctions, citing multiple violations by Kano Pillars.
These include inadequate security measures, failure to control supporters, and allowing pitch invasions that led to assaults on players and officials.
Penalties Imposed
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Points and Goals Deduction: Three points and three goals were deducted from Kano Pillars’ season totals due to the assault on match officials.
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Fines: The club faces a total fine of N9.5 million, broken down as follows:
- N4 million for failing to provide effective security, throwing objects onto the pitch, poor supporter conduct, and actions tarnishing the game’s reputation (N1 million per offense).
- N2 million for assaults on Shooting Stars players and match officials.
- N2 million to cover medical costs and damages for affected players and officials.
- N1.5 million as compensatory damages, with N250,000 allocated to each match official.
3. Stadium Closure: Sani Abacha Stadium is indefinitely closed for Kano Pillars’ home matches. The club will play home games in Katsina for the remainder of the season.
Further Directives
The NPFL has ordered Kano Pillars to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of the incident within seven days.
The club must also submit a detailed plan for improved matchday security to prevent future disruptions.
History of Misconduct
Kano Pillars, a prominent club in Nigerian football, has faced repeated sanctions for fan-related issues.
Since 2019, fines exceeding N36 million have been levied for various incidents, including a notable pitch invasion during a 2022 match against Akwa United, which also resulted in a points deduction.
Moving Forward
The NPFL’s firm actions underscore its commitment to ensuring safety and order in Nigerian football.
Kano Pillars now faces the challenge of addressing these issues to restore its reputation and comply with league standards.
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