NPFL: Shooting Stars speak on attack on players, officials by Kano Pillars’ fans

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Shooting Stars Sports Club, 3SC of Ibadan have said some members of their team were injured in the invasion of the pitch by Kano Pillars FC fans during the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 8 fixture at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano on Sunday.

The management of 3SC said this in a statement it published on the team’s social media platforms early Monday morning, while calling for justice over the violent behavior of the Kano Pillars fans.

The fans had invaded the pitch and attacked players of 3SC and match officials after a 94-minute equaliser by the Ibadan team.

Ahmed Musa, the General Manager of Kano Pillars FC had accepted responsibility for the behavior of the fans while tendering apologies to 3SC and the affected officials.

Musa, a former captain of Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, described the behavior of the Kano Pillars’ fans during the match as shameful.

Also, the Shooting Stars Sports Club in its statement strongly condemned the violent attack on its players and officials at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.

The Ibadan club noted that the match, which saw the home side take an early lead in the 9th minute, descended into chaos following their late equalizer in the 94th minute.

“In the aftermath of the goal, fans breached security protocols, invaded the pitch, and launched objects, including stones, at our players and officials. Our players were beaten and stoned in the process, and we have clear evidence to support this. This unacceptable conduct resulted in physical attacks and injuries to members of our team,” the Club said.

“The management of Shooting Stars Sports Club unequivocally condemns this appalling act of violence. Football must remain a force for unity, passion, and community. There is absolutely no place for violence or intimidation within the game,” it added while calling on authorities of NPFL and security agencies to take appropriate action to protect the integrity of the league and safety of players.

The Ibadan based club affirmed its committed to upholding the values of fair play, professionalism, and respect across all competitions in the statement.

“We call on the Nigeria Premier Football League authorities and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, bring the perpetrators to justice, and impose decisive disciplinary measures to ensure accountability.

“Protecting the integrity of the sport and the safety of all participants must remain a top priority,” 3SC said.

See the statement by Shooting Stars Sports Club below