NPFL Slams ₦9m Fine On Katsina United, Orders Home Games Behind Closed Doors After Violent Clash

The Nigeria Premier Football League has fined Katsina United a total of ₦9 million and ordered the club to play all remaining home matches behind closed doors in Jos, following violent scenes during their 1–1 draw with Barau FC.

According to a statement issued on Sunday, Katsina United were found guilty of several breaches, including poor crowd control, failure to ensure adequate security, and allowing unauthorised persons access to restricted areas.

The NPFL said fans threw dangerous objects onto the pitch, injuring some Barau FC players and harassing match officials. The league described the club’s supporters’ behaviour as “conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.”

The sanctions include ₦3 million for fans’ misconduct and throwing objects, ₦2 million for poor security arrangements, and ₦4 million compensation for medical bills, damages to Barau’s team buses, and for holding players and officials hostage after the match.

The league further directed that Katsina United relocate to the New Jos Stadium for all future home games, which will be played without spectators. The club has 48 hours to appeal the decision.

The disciplinary action follows reports that Barau FC’s Nana Abraham suffered a neck injury after being attacked by fans moments after scoring the equaliser in the 69th minute.

However, Katsina United denied any incident of violence or injury, calling the reports “baseless” and “an attempt to tarnish the club’s image.” The club’s media director, Nasir Gide, insisted that security personnel maintained order throughout the match and threatened legal action against outlets spreading false claims.

This marks the second major disciplinary case this season, coming just weeks after Kano Pillars were fined ₦9.5 million and handed a points deduction for crowd violence in a home game against Shooting Stars.