The Nigeria Premier Football League has come down hard on Katsina United following violent scenes that marred their recent home match against Barau FC. The club faces severe financial penalties and will be forced to play their remaining home games away from their traditional venue.
Heavy Penalties Imposed
The NPFL disciplinary committee has fined Katsina United a total of N9 million for multiple breaches of league rules during the match played on Saturday. The sanctions include a N3 million penalty for supporters throwing objects and misconduct, plus an additional N2 million fine for failure to provide adequate security.
In a significant blow to the club's home advantage, Katsina United has been ordered to play all remaining home matches at New Jos Stadium behind closed doors, meaning no spectators will be allowed to attend. This decision effectively strips the team of their home support for the remainder of the season.
Violent Incidents Detailed
The sanctions follow disturbing events that unfolded during the 1-1 draw between Katsina United and Barau FC at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. According to league officials, unauthorized persons gained access to restricted areas while fans threw harmful objects onto the pitch, resulting in injuries to Barau FC players.
The situation escalated to the point where Barau FC player Nana Abraham sustained a neck wound after being attacked by fans. Photographs circulated after the match showed Abraham bleeding on the pitch as officials struggled to restore order. The violence reportedly erupted shortly after Barau FC equalized in the 69th minute.
Additional Compensation Ordered
Beyond the direct fines, Katsina United has been directed to pay N4 million as compensation for various damages incurred during the incident. This amount covers medical treatment for injured players, damage to the away team's buses, and compensation for holding both the visiting team and match officials hostage after the final whistle.
The NPFL statement emphasized that the club failed to control their supporters, leading to harassment of both Barau FC players and match officials. League authorities described the conduct of Katsina United supporters as "capable of bringing the game into disrepute."
Katsina United has been given 48 hours to appeal the ruling if they choose to contest the decision. The swift and severe punishment reflects the NPFL's commitment to maintaining safety and order in Nigerian football following this serious breach of conduct.
