The General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, Ahmed Musa, has apologised over the violent incident that marred the team’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match against Shooting Stars Sports Club on Sunday.
Recall that violence broke out at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, on Sunday after Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan scored a late equaliser to draw 1-1 with Kano Pillars in a Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 8 encounter.
The angry fans invaded the pitch moments after the 94th-minute goal by Adams Mustapha,attacking the referee, match officials, and shooting stars players.
Security operatives were forced to fire teargas to disperse the irate crowd and restore order as officials and players ran toward the tunnel for safety.
Several officials narrowly escaped assault while some fans broke through the security barrier wielding sticks and other objects.
However, in a statement issued late Sunday, Musa described the incident as “heartbreaking, shameful, and completely unacceptable,” saying it did not reflect the values or proud history of Kano Pillars.
“What transpired against Shooting Stars is heartbreaking, shameful, and completely unacceptable. It does not represent the true values, identity, or the proud history of Kano Pillars,” he said.
He said the club was deeply sorry for the violent scenes that tarnished the image of both Kano Pillars and Nigerian football, adding that the team has always stood for “community, passion, and respect.”
Musa tendered an unreserved apology to Shooting Stars’ players, coaches, supporters, match officials, league organisers, and football fans across the country who were disappointed by the incident.
“Violence has no place in football. It is unacceptable, unjustifiable, and goes against everything this beautiful sport stands for,” he said. “Football is meant to unite, inspire, and bring joy. When it turns into scenes of chaos, we must confront it head-on.”
The General Manager also assured that the club would cooperate fully with the relevant authorities to identify those involved and ensure they face appropriate sanctions.
We understand that apologies alone are not enough. Words must be followed by action. We will take concrete steps internally to ensure that something like this never happens again,” he stated.
Musa further appealed to Kano Pillars supporters to demonstrate their passion through respect and discipline, describing the unfortunate incident as an opportunity for change within the club.
“True support is shown not through violence, but through respect. We must remind the world that our love for this club can be powerful without being destructive,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the club’s commitment to restoring trust, respect, and the true spirit of football in Kano and across Nigeria
