Barau FC warned by NPFL after stewards enter pitch during home match

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has warned Barau FC over security breaches during the club’s home fixtures after stewards were seen entering the field of play.

The league said it had received a video circulating on social media showing several Barau FC stewards encroaching onto the pitch after the club’s Matchday 10 fixture against Kwara United FC.

In a statement signed by its Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, the NPFL described the incident as a serious security concern. It warned that such conduct could develop into a major security breach if it was not addressed.

The league reminded Barau FC that the designated position for club stewards is in the terraces. Their role is to help control the crowd and maintain order among supporters during matches.

Stewards are not permitted to operate in restricted areas or enter the field of play, the NPFL said.

The league also made clear that Barau FC could face sanctions if a similar incident occurs during any of the club’s subsequent home matches. It stressed that stewards work under the full responsibility of the host club.

The NPFL has therefore instructed the management of Barau FC to take immediate action to correct the lapses and ensure that its future home fixtures comply fully with the league’s security directives.