The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed heavy sanctions on Kano Pillars Football Club following crowd violence during their Matchday 8 fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
In a Summary Jurisdiction Notice dated 13 October 2025 and signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league body found Kano Pillars guilty of multiple breaches of its rules and frameworks, including failure to provide adequate security and ensure proper conduct of supporters.
The NPFL said the club violated Rules B13.52, C9, B13.18, C1.1, and C11, noting that the breakdown of order led to “unauthorised persons gaining access to restricted areas” and the “harassment and assault of away team players and match officials.”
As a result, Kano Pillars were fined a total of N9.5 million and had three points and three goals deducted from their accrued tally. The breakdown of the sanctions includes:
- N1 million for failure to provide adequate security.
- N1 million for throwing objects toward the field and officials.
- N1 million for failure to ensure proper conduct of supporters.
- N1 million for conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.
- N2 million for assaulting away team players and match officials.
- N2 million as compensatory cost for treatment and damages.
- N1.5 million as compensatory damages to the match officials.
In addition, the NPFL ordered the indefinite closure of the Sani Abacha Stadium, directing that all Kano Pillars’ home matches henceforth be played in Katsina for the rest of the season or at least for ten home games, until the club can guarantee improved security and crowd control measures.
The club was also directed to produce and prosecute the culprits responsible for the pitch invasion and assault, and to submit a detailed security framework within seven working days.
According to the NPFL, “In accordance with Rule C26, you are required, within 48 hours of the date of this notice, to either submit to the summary jurisdiction and the sanctions contained herein, or elect to be dealt with by a disciplinary panel.”
The league further warned that any appeal or election deemed “frivolous” could attract additional sanctions under Rule E1.
Sunday’s violent incident saw irate Kano Pillars supporters invade the pitch after the match ended 1-1, attacking Shooting Stars players and match officials, prompting widespread condemnation from fans and stakeholders across the country.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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