FIFA-licensed football agent, Mr. Eddie Iseri Ogbemudia, has praised the NPFL’s swift punishment of Kano Pillars while urging equal urgency on players’ welfare, Sports247 reports.
Ogbemudia gave the Otunba Dele Elegbeleye-led Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) board a pat in the back for its decisive disciplinary action against Kano Pillars following violent incidents that marred their Matchday 8 fixture on Sunday.
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In a Summary Jurisdiction Notice, the NPFL sanctioned both Kano Pillars and Nasarawa United for various acts of misconduct.
Kano Pillars were fined ₦9.5 million and ordered to play their next three home games behind closed doors following crowd violence and pitch encroachment.
The club’s management and security officers also received official warnings for failing to maintain order at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
Speaking with Sports147, Ogbemudia described the league’s decision as timely and commendable, stressing that firm action was essential to uphold the integrity of the NPFL.
“There is no place for violence in football. I saw some short clips of what happened and was disappointed. Such actions bring disrepute to our game,” he said.
He further applauded the sanctions as fair and hoped they would serve as a deterrent to others.
“The punishment is deserving. I hope the club learns from it and ensures such incidents never happen again,” he added.
However, Ogbemudia urged the NPFL to show the same promptness in handling issues affecting players’ welfare, including unpaid wages and contract disputes.
“I hope one day the NPFL will act this swiftly when it concerns players’ welfare and contract-related matters,” he concluded.
