The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has condemned the violent pitch invasion that occurred on Sunday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, after the 1–1 draw between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC).
Chaos erupted moments after the final whistle when irate Kano Pillars fans stormed the pitch, attacking match officials, players, and staff of the visiting team.
Kano Pillars had taken an early lead through Mustapha Jibrin in the ninth minute, but a stoppage-time equaliser from Adams Mustapha of 3SC sparked unrest among sections of the home crowd.
In a statement, NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, strongly condemned the incident, assuring that disciplinary action would follow once official reports are reviewed.
“We condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans. This isolated incident is being treated with utmost seriousness,” Owumi said.
“Appropriate actions will follow upon review of the full reports from the Match Commissioner and Referees.”
He added that the league had contacted match officials and Shooting Stars representatives to ensure their safety.
In a separate statement, the management of Kano Pillars confirmed that the situation was “swiftly brought under control” through the intervention of security operatives.
“A few misguided persons attempted to cause disorder within the stadium premises, but thanks to the swift intervention of our stewards and security agencies, the situation was promptly contained,” the club said.
The club also disclosed that several suspects had been arrested and handed over to the police, pledging full cooperation with investigators.
“Kano Pillars FC will fully cooperate with the authorities to ensure that any individual found culpable faces the full wrath of the law. Furthermore, the club will impose strict sanctions by banning all identified troublemakers from accessing the Sani Abacha Stadium for the next 10 seasons.”