NPFL Slaps Kano Pillars with Heavy Sanctions After Violent Clash with Shooting Stars

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed severe penalties on Kano Pillars following the violent incidents during their Matchday 8 fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. The league’s disciplinary committee found the club guilty of multiple breaches, including inadequate security, failure to control supporters, and assault on away players and officials.

As a result, Kano Pillars has been fined ₦1,000,000 for each of the following offenses:

• Failure to provide adequate and effective security

• Throwing dangerous objects towards the field of play and match officials

• Failure to ensure proper conduct of supporters

• Misconduct capable of bringing the game to disrepute

Additionally, the club faces a ₦2,000,000 fine for assaulting away team players and officials, and another ₦2,000,000 as compensatory costs for treatment and damages inflicted on them. Match officials are to receive ₦1,500,000 in additional compensation.

The NPFL has also deducted 3 points and 3 goals from Kano Pillars’ accrued points and ordered the indefinite closure of the Sani Abacha Stadium. The club is mandated to play its remaining home games in Katsina or at least ten home matches until it proves such incidents will not recur. Furthermore, the club must identify and prosecute those who invaded the pitch and assaulted officials, and submit evidence of improved crowd control and security measures within seven working days.

The NPFL has given Kano Pillars 48 hours to comply with the sanctions or elect to face a disciplinary panel. All fines are to be paid within seven working days, and any appeal found frivolous may attract additional sanctions.

Editorial

The recent violence at the Sani Abacha Stadium serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for stringent security measures in Nigerian football. The NPFL’s decisive action against Kano Pillars is commendable, but it also highlights systemic issues that require long-term solutions.

While the sanctions imposed are significant, they should not be viewed as punitive but as a catalyst for change. The league’s response sets a precedent, signaling that such behavior will not be tolerated. However, the onus now lies on other clubs and stakeholders to learn from this incident and implement proactive measures to prevent future occurrences.

It’s imperative that clubs invest in robust security infrastructure and foster a culture of respect among supporters. The integrity of the game depends not only on the players and officials but also on the fans who support them. By working collaboratively, the NPFL and its clubs can ensure that the beautiful game remains a source of pride and unity for all Nigerians.

Did You Know?

1. Kano Pillars have previously faced sanctions for supporter-related incidents, including a ₦1 million fine for fan encroachment during a Matchday 4 fixture against Rivers United.
2. The Sani Abacha Stadium, named after Nigeria’s former military head of state, has been the venue for numerous high-profile matches in Nigerian football history.
3. In 2023, the NPFL introduced a “Fan Code of Conduct” to promote responsible behavior among supporters and reduce incidents of violence.
4. The NPFL’s disciplinary committee comprises representatives from various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Football Federation and independent legal experts.
5. Kano Pillars, founded in 1990, are one of the most successful clubs in Nigerian football, with multiple league titles to their name.