Kano Pillars deducted 3 points, fined ₦9.5m after fan violence in 1-1 draw against Shooting Stars

Nigerian Premier League side Kano Pillars have been hit with severe sanctions following the violent scenes that erupted during their 1-1 draw against Shooting Stars of Ibadan at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.

The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has fined the club a total of ₦9.5 million, deducted three points and three goals, and banished them to Katsina as punishment for the incident, which saw fans invade the pitch and attack players, match officials, and security personnel after the final whistle.

Chaos broke out when Shooting Stars grabbed a dramatic 94th-minute equaliser, prompting angry Pillars supporters to storm the field, pelting objects at officials and members of the visiting team.

In response, the club’s General Manager and Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, issued an unreserved apology to the league body, fans, and the wider football community, describing the events as unacceptable and contrary to the spirit of the game.

However, in a Summary Jurisdiction Notice released on Monday, October 13, the NPL found Kano Pillars guilty of multiple offences, including failure to provide adequate security, failure to control their supporters, and conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

The ₦9.5 million fine was broken down as follows: ₦1 million for inadequate security, ₦1 million for throwing dangerous objects, ₦1 million for failure to control supporters, ₦1 million for bringing the game into disrepute, ₦2 million for the assault on Shooting Stars players and officials, ₦2 million for medical treatment and damages suffered by the away team, and ₦1.5 million as compensatory damages for six affected match officials.

Beyond the financial penalties, the NPL ordered a three-point and three-goal deduction from Kano Pillars’ total and indefinitely closed the Sani Abacha Stadium, banning the club from using the venue for at least ten home matches or until they can guarantee adequate safety measures.

As a result, Kano Pillars will now host their home games in Katsina.