The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has slapped Katsina United with a total fine of N9 million and mandated that the club play all remaining home fixtures behind closed doors at the New Jos Stadium following violent incidents during their 1–1 draw with Barau FC on Saturday.
In a statement released on Sunday, the league said Katsina United violated multiple regulations, including failing to provide adequate security and control over their supporters. Unauthorized individuals reportedly gained access to restricted areas, while fans threw objects onto the pitch, injuring Barau FC players.
“The club failed to ensure proper conduct of their supporters, leading to harassment of Barau FC players and match officials,” the NPFL said, adding that the incidents brought the league into disrepute.
The fines were broken down as follows: N3 million for misconduct by supporters, N2 million for inadequate security, and N4 million in compensation for injured players, damage to the away team’s buses, and for detaining visiting officials. Katsina United have 48 hours from the notice to appeal the decision.
The disciplinary action comes after reports that Barau FC player Nana Abraham sustained a neck injury after being attacked by fans shortly after scoring in the 69th minute. Photographs from the game showed the player bleeding as officials intervened before the match resumed to a 1–1 draw.
Katsina United had earlier denied allegations of violence and player injury, calling the reports baseless. The club insisted that security personnel maintained order throughout the game and threatened legal action against platforms that published the claims.
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