In recent developments in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Kano Pillars faced a ₦1 million fine, and Heartland of Owerri received a stern warning in response to incidents involving their supporters during the matchday 4 fixture against Rivers United.
These decisions were conveyed in separate summary jurisdiction notices issued on Monday by the NPFL.
Kano Pillars supporters were found guilty of encroaching onto the field of play in their exuberance to celebrate a 93rd-minute goal during the match at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
After a thorough review of reports from match officials, the NPFL charged the club with a violation of Rule B13.18. As a result, the club has been ordered to pay the ₦1 million fine within 14 days. It was made clear that a failure to comply within the stipulated time would be considered an ongoing breach of the NPFL Framework and Rules.
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In a separate incident involving Heartland of Owerri, the NPFL expressed serious concerns over the behavior of the club’s supporters. The fans were accused of holding back players and officials at the stadium after the match, creating a situation that required the intervention of security personnel.
The memo issued by the NPFL, titled “MatchDay 4 Disturbances,” addressed Heartland directly, stating, “It has come to our attention that some irate supporters of your club held players and officials hostage after the match, making it difficult for them to exit the stadium premises until a detachment of security operatives arrived as reinforcement.” The Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, signed the memo.
The NPFL made it clear that such behavior was unacceptable and had the potential to tarnish the reputation of both Heartland and the league itself. As a response, Heartland was strongly advised to take measures to curb such behavior by organizing an orientation workshop for their supporters, with a specific focus on instilling the spirit of fair play best practices.
These decisions and warnings underline the NPFL’s commitment to maintaining discipline and fair play within the league, ensuring that the behavior of both clubs and their supporters aligns with the values and rules of the competition.
