Violence marred the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars on Sunday, as irate home fans invaded the pitch following a dramatic late equaliser, Afrosport reports.
The match, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, saw the hosts take an early lead in the 9th minute through Mustapha Jibrin. However, deep into stoppage time, Adams Mustapha netted a late equaliser for 3SC, sparking outrage among the home supporters.
At the final whistle, chaos erupted as a section of Kano Pillars fans stormed the pitch, targeting match officials with missiles and punches. Viral videos circulating on social media show the referees being chased and attacked, while players and officials from the visiting team were not spared.
Among the injured were 3SC players Ismail Ayodele and Adams Agba’a, both of whom reportedly sustained head injuries during the melee.
Security operatives on the ground were eventually forced to deploy teargas to disperse the violent crowd and escort the injured to safety.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with calls for the league authorities to take swift disciplinary action against those responsible and ensure the safety of players and officials in future matches.
In other games played, Katsina United defeated Remo Stars 3-1, Ikorodu City edged Bendel Insurance 1-0 in Lagos, while Kun Khalifat FC pipped Enyimba 1-0.
Elsewhere, Kwara United forced Wikki Tourists to a 1-1 draw, Plateau United won 2-0 against Barau FC, Niger Tornadoes earned a 1-1 draw at Warri Wolves just as Nasarawa United beat Enugu Rangers 2-1 and Abia Warriors recorded a 2-0 victory against El-Kanemi Warriors.
