NPFL fines Shooting Stars N5m, bans fans from remaining home matches

By Dayo Awoniyi

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed a N5 million fine on Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) following security breaches that led to an attack on Ikorodu City’s contingent during their Matchday 32 fixture at the Lekan Salami Stadium.

This ruling is a significant setback for Shooting Stars, who will now play the rest of their home fixtures without fan support, while also facing financial consequences due to the imposed fine.

The fine includes N3 million for Shooting Stars and an additional N2 million to cover damages to Ikorodu City’s bus. In addition, the club has been ordered to close the stadium to fans for the remainder of the season.

Shooting Stars were found guilty on three charges by the NPFL’s disciplinary panel: failure to provide adequate security, failure to control their supporters, and throwing objects onto the pitch and at referees. The club faces N1 million fines for each of these offenses.

The ruling stated: “You are in breach of Rule C9 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Premier Football League, as on Sunday, 6th April 2025, during the match between Shooting Stars and Ikorodu City, you failed to ensure the proper conduct of your supporters, leading to the assault on the away team.”

The panel also stressed that clubs must take full responsibility for the actions of their fans to ensure safety and security at matches.