Why NPFL Slammed ₦15 Million Fine On Kano Pillars

Kano Pillars have received significant penalties from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following disturbances caused by fans during their recent match against Rivers United.

The organization determined that the club violated multiple regulations, which included insufficient security measures, unauthorized pitch access, and mistreatment of match officials.

The team, known as Sai Masu Gida, was fined a cumulative amount of ₦15 million for inappropriate conduct, threats, and interference with the game.

Additionally, they are required to host their next three home games without spectators. One of these matches will occur during the current season, while the other two will take place at the beginning of the next season. The organization has given the club 48 hours to file an appeal.

Sources indicate that Kano Pillars faced charges for violating league regulations during their home match on 19 April 2026. Reports indicate that fans attacked the central referee, leading to a pause in the game when the official suggested he might abandon it.

Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa and fellow player Rabiu Ali eventually convinced the referee to resume play.

Earlier in the season, the club had already incurred a three-goal and three-point penalty, raising possibility of facing additional consequences. However, the repercussions manifested as significant fines and restrictions on stadium access.

According to its announcement, the NPFL stated: “The Kano club did not supply sufficient & effective security, resulting in unauthorized individuals accessing restricted zones.

“The club also contravened league regulations due to fans invading the pitch, endangering the safety of players & officials.

“The supporters of Kano Pillars engaged in actions that could damage the reputation of the sport.

“The organization also failed to ensure the proper behavior of its fans, which led to the intimidation & harassment of match officials.

“The club’s fans displayed serious misconduct against match officials, a behavior that jeopardizes the integrity of the league.

“For systematically failing to ensure adequate security, Kano Pillars are fined N4m & are also subject to an additional N3m penalty for ongoing unsporting conduct that can discredit the game.

“For frequent failure to manage the behavior of their fans, which resulted in the intimidation and harassment of match officials, Kano Pillars are subjected to a N3m fine.”

Here’s the detailed breakdown of the ₦15 million fine imposed on Kano Pillars by the NPFL:
₦4 million for continuous failure to provide adequate security.

₦3 million for actions unbecoming that could tarnish the sport's image.

₦3 million for inability to control the supporters leading to officials' harassment.

₦3 million for severe misconduct towards match officials.

₦2 million for causing interruptions and delays during the match.