NPFL:Kwara Utd Deducted Three Points, Fined N9m After Matchday 22 Chaos
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Kwara Utd have been sanctioned for multiple breaches of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Framework and Rules following incidents that occurred during their Matchday 22 rearranged fixture on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Kwara State Stadium, Ilorin.
The Ilorin-based club was found guilty of failing to provide adequate and effective security for the match, which led to unauthorized individuals gaining access to restricted areas within the stadium.
In addition, the club failed to ensure proper conduct of their supporters.
This lapse resulted in harassment and physical assaults on match officials as well as officials of Rivers United, causing bodily harm and further escalating tensions after the game.
Reports also indicated that supporters invaded restricted zones and held match officials and Rivers United officials hostage for several hours after the final whistle.
The acts were deemed unsporting and capable of bringing the game into disrepute.
Financial Penalties
As part of the disciplinary measures, Kwara Utd have been fined:
N2 million for failing to provide adequate and effective security.
N1 million for failing to ensure proper conduct of supporters.
N2 million for the assault on match officials and Rivers United officials.
N1 million for unsporting behaviour capable of bringing the game to disrepute.
N1 million for holding officials hostage after the match.
N2 million as compensatory costs for medical treatment and damages suffered by the affected officials.
The total financial penalty amounts to N9 million.
Beyond the financial sanctions, Kwara Utd will suffer a deduction of three points and three goals from their accumulated tally for the season due to the assaults on match officials.
Furthermore, the club has been ordered to play their remaining home fixtures at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, effectively relocating away from Ilorin for the rest of the campaign.
The NPFL has also directed Kwara Utd to identify the supporters responsible for the assaults and ensure their arrest and prosecution, providing evidence of compliance to the league authorities.
The club has been given 48 hours from the date of notice to file an appeal against the sanctions.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
