NPFL slams Kano Pillars with 3-point, 3-goal deduction, ₦9.5m fine, and home ban

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed severe sanctions on Kano Pillars following the violent pitch invasion and attacks on Shooting Stars players and match officials during their Matchday 8 fixture at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

Announced less than 24 hours after the incident, the NPFL deducted three points and three goals from Kano Pillars’ total tally for violating Rule C1.1, which prohibits assault on visiting teams and match officials.

Additionally, the Sani Abacha Stadium has been closed indefinitely, and Kano Pillars have been ordered to play all remaining home games this season at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

The league imposed a combined ₦9.5 million fine on Kano Pillars for multiple violations.

The club was fined ₦1 million for failing to provide adequate security and allowing unauthorized persons access to restricted areas, another ₦1 million for failing to control supporters who harassed players and officials, and an additional ₦1 million for objects thrown at match officials and players.

Kano Pillars were also fined ₦1 million for bringing the league into disrepute and ₦2 million for assaulting Shooting Stars players and match officials.

Furthermore, ₦2 million was imposed as compensation to the affected Shooting Stars players, and ₦1.5 million was levied as restitution for the match officials who were assaulted during the incident.

In a statement signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on violence, warning clubs that rules would be strictly enforced whenever necessary to curb unruly behavior from fans, players, or officials.

The NPFL has also recommended disciplinary reviews for five match officials involved in recent fixtures. For the Kano Pillars versus Shooting Stars match, the officials under review include center referee Mohammed B.

Tuta from Adamawa and assistant referees Bem Japhet from Benue and Shehu Isah from Adamawa. Following the Nasarawa United versus Rangers fixture, a review was also called for center referee Ikechukwu Taiwo from Rivers and assistant referee Usman Opeyemi Edward from Osun.

Kano Pillars retain the right to appeal the ruling, though failure to appeal or an unsuccessful appeal could lead to further sanctions. This verdict from the NPFL highlights its commitment to discipline, safety, and integrity in Nigeria’s top-flight league, sending a stern warning to clubs and fans alike.