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Shehu Sani Condemns Attack on 3SC Players, Referees by Kano Pillars Fans
Kano, Nigeria — Former lawmaker and rights advocate Shehu Sani has strongly condemned the attack on three Sporting Club (3SC) players and match officials by supporters of Kano Pillars during a recent league match.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a statement released Monday, Sani called the violence “shameful and unacceptable,” urging the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and all league authorities to take firm action.
“The integrity of our football is at stake when fans take justice into their own hands. Attacking players and referees in the stadium must never be tolerated,” Sani said. “These actions undermine safety, sportsmanship, and the respect due to officials and athletes.”
The Incident
During the game between Kano Pillars and 3SC at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday, tensions flared after several referee decisions viewed as controversial by home fans. When a foul was called against Kano Pillars, some supporters breached security and confronted three 3SC players on the field. They also surrounded and threatened match officials.
Video clips of the incident circulated on social media, showing fans pushing and shouting at the players and referees. Some in the crowd were seen attempting to snatch referee flags. The match was temporarily halted while security personnel restored order.
After the clash, two 3SC players required medical attention, though their injuries were not deemed life-threatening. The referees were escorted off the field amid tight security.
Call for Accountability
Sani demanded investigations into the security lapses that allowed the attack to occur. “How did fans get so close to the pitch? Where were the stadium stewards? These gaps must be closed,” he said.
He also urged the NFF, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), and state football associations to impose strict sanctions. “Clubs whose supporters act violently should face penalties, lost points, or even suspension. We must send a message that such behavior will not be tolerated,” he added.
Sani appealed directly to fans: “Your passion for a team should never harm others. Rivalry is part of the game, but violence destroys it. Let us support our teams peacefully.”
Responses from Authorities
At press time, the NPFL had not issued a formal statement, but reports suggest they are reviewing video evidence and match reports. Security agencies in Kano said they would investigate how access was breached.
A 3SC club official condemned the attack, stating the safety of players and officials is paramount. The club asked for compensation for damages and strict sanctions against Kano Pillars.
Kano Pillars, meanwhile, released a short statement expressing regret over the incident. They claimed some supporters acted on their own and vowed to cooperate with investigations.
Broader Implications
Such incidents are not new in Nigerian football. Fan violence, threats to referees, and pitch invasions have marred several matches in recent seasons, raising concerns about player safety and the reputation of local leagues.
Analysts say recurring violence can scare sponsors away and lower match attendance, damaging the financial health of clubs. Bolstering stadium security, training stewards, and enforcing strict penalties are often cited as essential steps.
Sani’s intervention highlights growing public impatience with recurring misconduct. “We must protect the dignity of our sport,” he said.
What Happens Next
Investigations are expected to begin immediately. The NFF and NPFL may call hearings with both clubs, review security protocols, and sanction those responsible.
If penalties are imposed, Kano Pillars could lose points, face fines, or play matches behind closed doors. The assault may also trigger tighter stadium rules across Nigeria.
Meanwhile, 3SC will press for justice for their injured players and threatened referees. The hope among football lovers is that swift and fair actions restore confidence that no one is above the rule of law—even in sporting rivalries.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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