The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has fined Katsina United ₦9 million and ordered the club to play all remaining home games behind closed doors at Jos Stadium following incidents of violence during their 1‑1 draw with Barau FC on Saturday.

According to the league’s ruling, Katsina United failed to provide adequate security for the match, allowing fans to throw objects onto the pitch and harass players and officials. The NPFL also noted that the club did not properly control their supporters, creating a dangerous environment that disrupted the game.

The ₦9 million fine covers several breaches. The club is paying ₦3 million for failing to ensure proper fan conduct and bringing the league into disrepute, ₦2 million for inadequate security arrangements, and ₦4 million in compensation for treatment of injured players, damage to the visiting team’s bus, and holding match officials after the game. 

Home Games Relocated, Fans Barred

In addition to the financial penalty, Katsina United must play all remaining home matches in Jos without spectators. The NPFL stated that the decision is intended to prevent further incidents and protect the integrity of league matches.

The club has 48 hours to appeal the decision. Katsina United, however, denied some of the allegations, calling reports about injuries and property damage exaggerated. The NPFL’s ruling sends a clear signal that clubs are responsible for maintaining safety during games.

This is one of the strictest actions taken by the NPFL in recent seasons and highlights the league’s determination to curb crowd violence. Katsina United will now have to adjust to playing without fan support while managing the financial impact of the sanctions.