The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a heavy sanction on Katsina United, slapping the club with a N9 million fine and enforcing strict matchday restrictions following a series of rule breaches during their heated Matchday 12 fixture against Barau FC on Saturday.
In a firm move to protect the integrity of the league and reinforce its zero-tolerance stance on violence and unsafe match environments, the NPFL Disciplinary Committee found Katsina United guilty of multiple violations of the league’s Framework & Rules.
The offences ranged from security lapses, supporter misconduct, harassment of players and match officials, to acts bringing the game into disrepute.
According to the ruling:
N1 million fine was imposed for throwing objects onto the pitch
N1 million for failure to control fans’ behaviour
N1 million for actions bringing the league into disrepute
(Subtotal: N3 million)
Additionally, the club was hit with a N2 million fine for failing to provide adequate and effective security — a key requirement for hosting NPFL fixtures.
The Committee went further, ordering Katsina United to pay N2 million compensation for the treatment of those injured in the chaos, and another N2 million for damages to Barau FC’s team buses and for holding the away team and match officials hostage for hours after the final whistle.
This brings the total financial penalty to N9 million.
In one of the most decisive disciplinary actions of the 2025/26 NPFL season so far, the league has also ordered Katsina United to play their home games at the Jos Stadium — and behind closed doors until further notice.
The relocation and fan ban signal a stern warning that the league will not hesitate to enforce severe consequences when club environments pose risks to safety, fairness, and professionalism.
Katsina United have 48 hours from the date of the notice to file an appeal.
This sanction sets a strong precedent, reinforcing the NPFL’s commitment to prioritising player safety, crowd control, and responsible club management — essential pillars for a league seeking to strengthen its credibility both locally and internationally.
Culled from Sports247
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