The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has handed Katsina United a ₦9 million fine and ordered the club to play all remaining home matches behind closed doors at a neutral venue in Jos. The sanctions follow violent incidents during Katsina United’s 1–1 draw against Barau FC at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
Reports say a Katsina United fan invaded the pitch after Barau’s 69th-minute equaliser and attacked midfielder Nana Abraham, leaving him with a neck injury. The match was briefly halted before resuming, with Abraham replaced by Hillary Ekawu. The league condemned the club for failing to control its supporters and for inadequate security measures, describing the behavior as “capable of bringing the game into disrepute.”
The ₦9 million fine covers several violations: throwing objects, failing to ensure proper conduct of supporters, inadequate security, and compensation for injuries, damages, and the detention of match officials and the visiting team.
The fine breakdown announced by the Nigeria Premier Football League:
₦1 million for supporters throwing objects onto the pitch; ₦1 million for failure to control supporters; ₦1 million for conduct bringing the game into disrepute — totaling ₦3 million.
₦2 million for inadequate security provisions.
₦4 million in compensation: for treatment of injured Barau FC players, damage to visiting team’s buses, and for detaining match officials and the visiting team post-match.
In addition to the financial penalty, the NPFL has imposed a stadium ban: Katsina United must play their home fixtures at the New Jos Stadium, Plateau State. Katsina United now faces a competitive disadvantage as they play without fan support for the rest of the season and have 48 hours to appeal the ruling.
Football analysts say this incident could serve as a turning point for the NPFL in enforcing stadium safety standards. Clubs are expected to tighten security protocols and ensure proper crowd management to prevent similar occurrences. The league’s firm action is also seen as a step toward building a safer, more professional environment for players, officials, and fans alike.
This incident highlights the NPFL’s strict stance on crowd violence, sending a message to all clubs that security and proper fan conduct are non-negotiable if Nigerian football is to grow in professionalism and credibility.
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