NPFL Moves to Ensure Incident-free Northwest Derby in Katsina 

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has designated as high risk, the Matchday 22 midweek fixture in Katsina today between Katsina United and Kano Pillars.

The designation is informed by the history of rivalry between the Northwest clubs and the attendant fans incidents that follow their fixtures.

The NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, clarified that the move was a pre-emptive measure to guard against any untoward incidents before, during and after the match.

A memo to this effect addressed to the two clubs end entitled, “Re: Provision of Adequate Security and Fans Control Measures, directed them to work with the NPFL Head of Security to ensure a hitch-free match.

“We write to draw your attention to the perennial fan problems usually encountered in fixtures involving your two teams.

“We have therefore taken steps to avoid any ugly incidents as you play the Matchday 22 fixture at the Muhammed Dikko Stadium in Katsina  on Wednesday, February 28.

“Our Head of Security, Mr Henry Chijioke will be physically present for the match to work with the State FA and the two clubs towards ensuring adequate security and Fans control measures are in place”, Owumi said in the memo.

The NPFL COO expressed confidence that the measures put in place and the proactive engagement with the two clubs would ensure a conducive atmosphere for the match.

He said the Match Commissioner has equally been put on notice to ensure strict adherence to Security requirements and crowd control measures.