Katsina United have been hit with a ₦9 million fine and instructed to play all remaining home fixtures behind closed doors in Jos following violent incidents during their 1-1 draw with Barau FC on Saturday.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) announced the sanctions on Sunday, citing multiple breaches of its Framework and Rules. The league faulted Katsina United for failing to provide adequate security and for losing control of supporters at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
According to the NPFL, unauthorized individuals accessed restricted areas, and some fans threw dangerous objects onto the pitch, resulting in injuries to Barau FC players.
“The club failed to ensure proper conduct of their supporters, leading to harassment of Barau FC players and match officials,” the league stated.
It described the behavior as “conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.”
Breakdown of Penalties
The NPFL detailed the fines as follows:
- ₦3 million for fan misconduct and throwing objects
- ₦2 million for failing to provide adequate security
- ₦4 million as compensation for medical expenses, bus repairs, and damages suffered by Barau FC players and officials
Additionally, all Katsina United home games are to be relocated to the New Jos Stadium and played without spectators. The club has 48 hours to appeal the decision.
Gossip News Now reports that the sanctions follow the injury of Barau FC player Nana Abraham, who was hurt in the chaos that erupted after his team’s 69th-minute equalizer. Photographs shared by Barau FC showed Abraham bleeding while match officials and security personnel worked to restore order before the game ended 1-1.
Katsina United Deny Allegations
Before the NPFL ruling, Katsina United dismissed the violence claims as “entirely baseless.” In a statement, media director Nasir Gide insisted the club maintained security throughout the match.
“At no point during the match did any supporter gain access to the main pitch,” Gide said.
“Katsina United Football Club is committed to professionalism, discipline, and fair play both on and off the pitch.”
The club also called on media outlets to retract reports and threatened legal action against those who failed to do so.
Recent Incidents of Fan Violence
Saturday’s incident is the second case of fan unrest to hit the league in recent weeks. In October, Kano Pillars were fined ₦9.5 million, docked points, and had the Sani Abacha Stadium closed indefinitely after supporters invaded the pitch following a late equalizer against Shooting Stars.
