In a move to restore discipline and protect the integrity of the Nigerian Premier football league, the league management has imposed heavy sanctions on Kano Pillars following violent scenes that disrupted their matchday 8 fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.
Kano pillars was found guilty of multiple breaches of the NPFL framework and rules after failing to provide adequate and effective security during sunday’s match, which led to pitch encroachment and violent conduct by supporters.
Supporters harassed and assaulted match officials and players of the visiting team, shooting stars throwing dangerous objects onto the pitch, actions deemed capable of bringing the game to disrepute.
The NPFL has docked kano pillars 3 points and 3 goals and are to pay a total fine of ₦10.5 million.
₦4 million for security breaches, misconduct, and bringing the game into disrepute, ₦2 million for assaults, ₦2 million in compensatory costs for treatment and damages, and ₦1.5 million to the match officials at ₦250,000 each.
The club has also been banned from playing at the sani abacha stadium.
All home matches will now be played in katsina for the rest of the season or a minimum of 10 matches—pending assurances of improved safety.
In addition kano pillars have been ordered to produce the perpetrators of the violence and show evidence of prosecution.
They are also required to submit a detailed matchday security plan to the NPFL within 7 days.
The club has 48 hours to accept the judgment or submit an appeal.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
