NPFL slams Kano Pillars with heavy sanctions over violence against Shooting Stars

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has handed out severe punishments to Kano Pillars Football Club following the violent incidents that erupted during their Matchday 8 fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

In a Summary Jurisdiction Notice dated October 13, 2025, and signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league body found the club guilty of multiple breaches of its Framework and Rules, including Rules B13.52, C9, B1.31.8, C1.1, and C11.

The infractions cited include: Failure to provide adequate and effective security, Failure to ensure proper conduct of supporters, throwing of dangerous objects, misconduct capable of bringing the game to disrepute, and assault on visiting players and match officials.

As a result, the NPFL imposed the following penalties on Kano Pillars; ₦1,000,000 fine for failure to provide adequate security, ₦1,000,000 fine for throwing dangerous objects at match officials, ₦1,000,000 fine for failure to control supporters, ₦1,000,000 fine for conduct bringing the game into disrepute, ₦2,000,000 fine for assaulting away team players and officials, ₦2,000,000 compensation for treatment and damages inflicted on 3SC players and officials and ₦1,500,000 additional compensation to match officials.

Also, NPFL deduct three points and three goals from Kano Pillars’ accrued points and indefinite closure of the Sani Abacha Stadium, with the club ordered to play home matches in Katsina for the rest of the season or at least 10 matches.

Mandatory identification and prosecution of pitch invaders, with a directive to submit proof of improved crowd control measures within seven working days.

The NPFL warned that Kano Pillars must comply with all sanctions or choose to appear before a disciplinary panel within 48 hours. All fines are to be paid within seven working days.

The league body also cautioned that any frivolous appeal may attract additional sanctions in line with Rule E1 of the NPFL Framework.

The sanctions follow widespread outrage over violent scenes during the high-profile fixture, which saw fans invade the pitch and attack players and officials.

Videos circulating online showed chaotic moments as security personnel struggled to control the crowd, prompting calls from stakeholders for decisive action.