Kano Pillars have been handed heavy sanctions by the Nigeria Premier Football League following crowd disturbances and multiple rule violations during their fixture against Rivers United on April 19.
The league said its investigation found that Kano Pillars failed to provide adequate security, allowing unauthorised individuals access to restricted areas, which led to a pitch invasion and safety concerns for players and match officials.
According to the NPFL, the incident escalated after supporters entered the field of play, disrupting proceedings and creating an unsafe environment.
The club was charged with several breaches of league regulations, including failure to ensure proper security, inability to control supporters, behaviour capable of bringing the game into disrepute, intimidation and harassment of officials, and interference with the referee.
The league imposed a total fine of 15 million naira on Kano Pillars, citing the severity and recurrence of the offences. The sanctions include penalties for security lapses, misconduct toward officials and disruption of the match.
In addition to the financial punishment, Kano Pillars will play their next three home matches without spectators. The restriction covers their remaining home fixture this season and the first two home games of the next campaign.
The NPFL said the measures are part of ongoing efforts to enforce discipline and improve standards across Nigerian domestic football, as the league seeks to strengthen its credibility.
Kano Pillars have been given 48 hours to appeal the decision.
The sanctions leave the club facing both financial and competitive challenges, while also highlighting broader concerns about matchday organisation and supporter control within the league.
