THE Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) management has promised to take swift action after an ugly incident marred Kano Pillars’ home fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) today.
Kano Pillars fans at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano invaded the pitch and attacked the match officials and 3SC players shortly after the visiting team from Ibadan scored a stoppage-time equaliser to make it 1-1.
Players and officials of 3SC were injured in the fracas before security operatives intervened and dispersed the violent crowd with tear gas.
In reaction, the NPFL issued a statement shortly after the mayhem, acknowledging the attack and promising to look into it.
“The management of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) said it monitored and has noted with concern the disturbing reports and viral video clips from this evening’s NPFL Matchday 8 between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars, indicating that fans invaded the pitch shortly after the final whistle,” the body stated.
The statement signed by Davidson Owumi, the NPFL Chief Operating Officer, assured that while the league awaits the official match reports and complete video evidence from the Match Commissioner and referees.
“We condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans,” Owumi noted.
The NPFL added: “The League is also assuring all stakeholders and football lovers that this isolated incident is being treated with utmost seriousness, and appropriate actions will follow upon review of the full reports.”
Owumi further stated that the NPFL has remained in touch with the Match Commissioner, the referees and officials of 3SC whose safety has been secured.
“We reaffirm our commitment to maintaining discipline, safety, and professionalism at all league venues across the country,” the former Rangers striker added.
While fans of several clubs, including those of 3SC, have been involved in violent acts during home games in recent seasons, Kano Pillars’ supporters are gaining a reputation for being the most notorious, as they have been sanctioned numerous times for their conduct.
The NPFL is expected to fine Kano Pillars heavily, and the club could also be docked points.
Meanwhile, there were eight other NPFL matches across the country today, with newcomers Kun Khalifat stunning Enyimba 1-0 and ending their unbeaten start to the season, champions Remo Stars going down 3-1 at Katsina United, and Ikorodu City edging out Bendel Insurance 1-0.
NPFL RESULTS
Kun Khalifat 1-0 Enyimba
Kano Pillars 1-1 3SC
Wikki Tourists 1-1 Kwara United
Ikorodu City 1-0 Bendel Insurance
Abia Warriors 2-0 El Kanemi Warriors
Plateau United 2-0 Barau
Katsina United 3-1 Remo Star
Warri Wolves 1-1 Niger Tornadoes
Nasarawa United 2-1 Enugu Rangers