The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has strongly condemned the violent scenes that unfolded at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano after the league match between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars ended in a 1-1 draw.
According to eyewitness reports, moments after the final whistle, sections of the home fans invaded the pitch, targeting match officials and players from the visiting team. The disturbing scenes have sparked outrage within the Nigerian football community and renewed calls for stricter disciplinary measures to curb crowd violence in domestic football.
In an official statement released late on Sunday, NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi described the incident as “unacceptable” and pledged that the league management would take appropriate disciplinary action once the official match reports and video evidence are reviewed.
“We condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans,” Owumi said. “Football is a game of passion, but such passion must never cross the line into aggression or lawlessness.”
Owumi revealed that the NPFL Secretariat has already reached out to the Match Commissioner, the Referees, and the management of Shooting Stars to ensure their safety following the incident. He also confirmed that the league body remains in contact with all parties involved to gather a comprehensive account of what transpired.
“The League is assuring all stakeholders and football lovers that this isolated incident is being treated with utmost seriousness,” Owumi continued. “Appropriate actions will follow upon review of the full reports.”
The NPFL official emphasized that maintaining safety, discipline, and professionalism at all league venues remains a top priority for the league organizers. “We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every NPFL venue provides a secure environment for players, officials, and spectators alike,” he said.
The violent outbreak in Kano has once again brought to light the persistent issue of fan misconduct in Nigerian football. While the league has made notable progress in improving officiating, broadcasting, and club management standards, crowd control and stadium security continue to pose significant challenges.
The Sani Abacha Stadium, one of Nigeria’s historic football venues, has witnessed similar incidents in the past. This latest episode threatens to tarnish Kano Pillars’ reputation as one of the country’s most supported and successful clubs.
Analysts and stakeholders have urged the NPFL to impose strong sanctions on any club found culpable of failing to control its supporters. In recent seasons, fines, stadium bans, and points deductions have been among the measures used to deter such behavior, but enforcement has not always been consistent.
Former international and football analyst, Emeka Ifejiagwa, told reporters that the NPFL must act swiftly to maintain its integrity. “These acts of violence are damaging the image of our league,” he said. “If the NPFL wants to be taken seriously—by sponsors, broadcasters, and international observers—it must send a clear message that hooliganism will not be tolerated.”
He added that clubs must take greater responsibility for fan education and security coordination. “Football should unite communities, not endanger lives,” Ifejiagwa stated.
Shooting Stars, who were reportedly escorted out of the stadium under police protection, have yet to issue an official statement. However, club officials privately expressed concern over player safety and the potential emotional toll of the incident on their squad.
Kano Pillars, on their part, have condemned the actions of a “small group of unruly supporters” and promised full cooperation with the NPFL investigation. Club chairman, Alhaji Surajo Shuaibu, said the club “deeply regrets” the events and assured that internal disciplinary measures will be taken against those involved.
As the NPFL continues its investigation, football lovers across Nigeria await the league’s final decision—one that could set a critical precedent for future cases. The expectation is clear: the NPFL must balance fairness with firmness to preserve the credibility of Nigeria’s top-flight football.
For now, Owumi’s assurance remains the official stance: “We will not allow violence to define our football. The NPFL is committed to discipline, safety, and professionalism—on and off the pitch.”
