NPFL Fines Katsina United N9m, Orders Remaining Home Games Behind Closed Doors After Fan Violence

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed a N9 million fine on Katsina United and instructed that all remaining home matches be played behind closed doors at the New Jos Stadium, following violent incidents during their 1–1 draw with Barau FC on Saturday.

In a statement released on Sunday, the league cited multiple breaches of its Framework and Rules, including inadequate security measures and failure to control supporters. Unauthorized individuals reportedly entered restricted areas, and fans threw objects onto the pitch, injuring Barau FC players.

“The club failed to ensure proper conduct of their supporters, resulting in harassment of Barau FC players and match officials,” the NPFL said. “Katsina United supporters’ actions brought the game into disrepute.”

The fines include N3 million for fan misconduct and actions damaging the league’s reputation, N2 million for security lapses, and N4 million to cover medical expenses for injured players, damage to the away team’s buses, and the detention of visiting players and officials. Katsina United have 48 hours to appeal the ruling.

Reports indicate Barau FC player Nana Abraham suffered a neck injury after fans attacked him following his team’s equalizer in the 69th minute, causing chaos at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. Photographs showed Abraham bleeding while officials restored order before the game concluded 1–1.

Katsina United previously denied any violence or injuries, calling the reports “entirely baseless.” The club’s media director, Nasir Gide, said security maintained control throughout the match and accused media outlets of attempting to tarnish the club’s reputation. The club has demanded retractions and threatened legal action if corrections are not published.

This incident follows a similar NPFL sanction in October, when Kano Pillars were fined N9.5 million, docked points, and had their stadium closed after fans invaded the pitch during a late equalizer against Shooting Stars.