The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has voiced its deep concern and frustration following alarming reports of violence during a recent top-flight fixture. The league body is now taking decisive action to investigate the incident.
Disturbing Reports from Ikenne Stadium
The focus of the investigation is the Matchday 20 fixture between Remo Stars and Ikorodu City, which took place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne. According to the NPFL, there were reports of a fracas and alleged physical attacks on fans both during and after the match concluded.
What makes the situation particularly troubling for league officials is that the alleged violence occurred despite proactive measures. A reconciliation meeting had previously been held with top officials from both clubs in attendance, aiming to ensure a peaceful encounter.
NPFL Launches Immediate Investigation
In response to the serious allegations, the NPFL, through its Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, has officially summoned both clubs. They have been invited to an investigative hearing scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026. The hearing will be held at the NPFL's office in Abuja.
Owumi stated that the league is in possession of video evidence and detailed reports related to the incident. The purpose of the hearing is twofold: to determine the immediate causes of the disturbance and to uncover any underlying remote issues that contributed to the clash.
Potential Sanctions for Culpable Parties
The NPFL has made it clear that this is a formal disciplinary process. The statement from the league emphasized that the investigative hearing will enable the governing body to invoke the appropriate rules and apply due sanctions.
Any individual or club found culpable for the violence will face punishment as stipulated by the NPFL's regulations. This firm stance underscores the league's commitment to maintaining safety, order, and the integrity of the competition for all stakeholders, especially the fans.
The swift action by the NPFL highlights a zero-tolerance approach to violence in Nigerian football, aiming to set a precedent and deter similar incidents in the future.
