The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has come down hard on Kano Pillars following the violent incidents that marred their Matchday 8 clash against Shooting Stars at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.

According to TalkTalk Nigeria, the league body fined the Sai Masu Gida ₦9.5 million for failing to provide adequate security and ensure the safety of players and officials during the tense encounter, which ended 1-1.

Trouble erupted shortly after the final whistle, as angry home fans allegedly attacked Shooting Stars players and match officials, protesting what they perceived as questionable refereeing decisions.

In addition to the fine, the NPFL has deducted three points and three goals from Kano Pillars’ accumulated tally and banned them from playing at the Sani Abacha Stadium for the remainder of the season.

The NPFL’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, had earlier condemned the act, assuring that strict measures would be taken to uphold discipline, safety, and professionalism in Nigerian football.

💭 Opinion: Football Passion Should Unite — Not Destroy

Kano Pillars’ punishment is not just a disciplinary action — it’s a reminder that football passion must never cross into violence. While emotions naturally run high in competitive matches, resorting to aggression undermines the beauty and integrity of the game.

The Sani Abacha Stadium has long been known for its electrifying atmosphere and loyal fan base, but Sunday’s incident cast a shadow on that legacy. When fans attack players and officials, it doesn’t just hurt the opposition — it hurts the club’s reputation, its supporters, and the spirit of Nigerian football itself.

The NPFL’s tough stance, though painful for Pillars’ faithful, is necessary. Football cannot thrive in chaos. Respect for officials, fair play, and security must remain non-negotiable if the league hopes to command global respect.

For Kano Pillars, this is more than a punishment — it’s a wake-up call. True support means standing by your team in victory and in frustration, but never in violence. Because when fans lose control, the entire game loses meaning.