Reactions as football club fans attack referees, players after match

News Update

THE Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has strongly condemned the violent scenes that followed Sunday’s 1–1 draw between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

Chaos broke out at the Sani Abacha Stadium after Kano Pillars fans invaded the pitch and attacked match officials, players, and staff of Shooting Stars Sports Club following a dramatic late equaliser.

The fixture, which ended 1–1, descended into violent scenes moments after the final whistle.

Kano Pillars had taken the lead through Mustapha Jibrin in the ninth minute, and the home crowd appeared set to celebrate victory.

However, during the stoppage time, Adams Mustapha equalised for Shooting Stars, a goal that turned jubilation into chaos.

In a statement released, the NPFL’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, condemned the incident and promised swift sanctions 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,” Mr Owumi said.

“This isolated incident is being treated with utmost seriousness.

“Appropriate actions will follow upon review of the full reports from the Match Commissioner and Referees.”

He added that the league management had contacted both match officials and Shooting Stars representatives to ensure their safety.

In a separate statement, the management of Kano Pillars acknowledged the unrest but insisted the situation was “swiftly brought under control.”

“Immediately after the final whistle, a few misguided persons attempted to cause disorder within the stadium premises. However, thanks to the swift intervention of our stewards and security agencies, the situation was promptly brought under control,” the club stated.

The club confirmed that several individuals had been arrested and handed over to the police and pledged full cooperation with security agencies.

“Kano Pillars FC will fully cooperate with the authorities to ensure that any individual found culpable faces the full wrath of the law,” the statement added.

“Furthermore, the club will impose strict sanctions by banning all identified troublemakers from accessing the Sani Abacha Stadium for the next 10 seasons.”