Nigeria Leagues
NPFL fines Katsina United ₦9m, orders games behind closed doors after violence vs Barau FC
By Dayo Awoniyi
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has slammed a ₦9 million fine on Katsina United and ordered the club to play all remaining home matches behind closed doors following violent scenes during their Matchday 12 clash with Barau FC at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium on Saturday.
In a disciplinary statement, the NPFL found Katsina United guilty of multiple breaches of its Framework and Rules, including failure to provide adequate and effective security, which allowed unauthorized individuals access to restricted areas.
The league also cited the club for poor crowd management after its supporters were found to have harassed Barau FC players and match officials, while throwing dangerous objects onto the pitch — incidents that left several visiting players injured.
The NPFL described the conduct of the home fans as “acts capable of bringing the game into disrepute.” Consequently, Katsina United will play all remaining home fixtures at the New Jos Stadium in Plateau State and without spectators.
According to the NPFL, the ₦9 million sanction covers multiple offenses: poor supporter behavior, inadequate security, and compensation for injuries sustained by Barau FC players, damages to the away team’s buses, and the unlawful detention of match officials and the visiting team after the match.
Katsina United have 48 hours from the date of the notice to appeal the punishment.
The NPFL’s decision underscores growing concerns about crowd violence and security lapses at league venues across Nigeria, as the governing body continues efforts to enforce discipline and protect the integrity of domestic football.
