Tag: Shooting Stars

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed tough penalties on Kano Pillars following violent scenes that marred their Matchday 8 home fixture against Shooting Stars at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on Sunday. In a Summary Jurisdiction Notice dated October 13 and signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league found the club guilty of several offences, including poor security, fan violence, throwing objects onto the pitch, and assaulting Shooting Stars players and match officials. According to the NPFL, Kano Pillars failed to provide adequate and effective security, which allowed unauthorized persons to invade restricted areas and the field of play. The league also faulted the club for failing to control its supporters, who harassed and physically attacked the visiting team and match officials. As punishment, the NPFL deducted three points and three goals from Kano Pillars’ total and issued fines amounting to N9.5 million. This includes N1 million each for inadequate security, throwing dangerous objects, fan misconduct, and bringing the game into disrepute — totaling N4 million. An additional N2 million fine was placed on the club for the assault on players and officials, while N1.5 million will serve as compensatory damages of N250,000 each to the affected match officials. Another N2 million fine was issued as compensation for medical treatment and damages sustained by Shooting Stars players and the officials. In addition to the financial penalties, the NPFL ordered Kano Pillars to relocate their home matches to Katsina for the remainder of the season — or at least ten matches — until the league is satisfied that proper security measures are in place. The Sani Abacha Stadium has been closed indefinitely to Kano Pillars’ home games. The club has also been directed to identify and produce those responsible for Sunday’s violence, show proof of their prosecution, and submit a detailed matchday security plan within seven days. Kano Pillars have 48 hours to either accept the ruling or appeal it. However, the NPFL warned that any baseless appeal could lead to additional sanctions under Rule E1 of the league’s framework. The decision follows nationwide outrage over the chaotic scenes in Kano, with many football fans and analysts condemning the violence as a stain on the image of Nigerian football.