NPFL Slaps Kano Pillars with ₦12m Fine and Stadium Ban
Sai Masu Gida Sanctioned for Security Breaches in Clash Against Rivers United
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has imposed heavy sanctions on Kano Pillars following multiple breaches of the league’s Framework and Rules during their home fixture against Rivers United on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
The club was found guilty of failing to provide adequate and effective security, which allowed unauthorized persons to gain access to restricted areas.
Supporters also encroached onto the pitch, compromising the safety of players and officials. In addition, Kano Pillars fans engaged in conduct deemed capable of bringing the game into disrepute, including intimidation and harassment of match officials.
The NPFL ruled that the club’s repeated failure to ensure proper conduct of its supporters amounted to gross misconduct, undermining the integrity of the league.
As a result, Kano Pillars have been fined a total of ₦12 million: ₦4 million for inadequate security, ₦3 million for unsporting behaviour, ₦3 million for harassment and intimidation of match officials, and ₦2 million for disruption and delay of the match, which included harassment of the centre referee and stoppage of play.
In addition to the financial penalties, Kano Pillars will play their next three home matches behind closed doors, the final fixture of this season and the first two of the 2026/2027 campaign.
The club has been given 48 hours from the date of notice to appeal the sanctions.
