The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has sanctioned Owerri-based side Kun Khalifat following their failure to honour their Matchday 24 fixture against El-Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri on Monday.
In a statement released by the league organisers, the NPFL ruled that Kun Khalifat’s decision not to show up for the encounter constituted a clear breach of the league’s framework and operational rules.
As a consequence, the league awarded a three-point and three-goal forfeiture in favour of El-Kanemi Warriors.
Beyond the forfeiture, the NPFL also imposed a ₦10 million fine on the Owerri club.
However, the fine has been suspended for the remainder of the season, subject to Kun Khalifat not committing a similar offence before the end of the campaign.
Reacting strongly to the ruling, Kun Khalifat condemned the sanctions, describing them as “outrageous and disproportionate.”
The club maintained that it had presented what it considered valid and compelling reasons for its inability to travel for the fixture, but alleged that these explanations were rejected by the league authorities.
In an official statement, the club accused the NPFL of adopting a punitive approach rather than one aimed at nurturing the league and its participants.
“The punishment handed down to us is not only unacceptable but a clear indication that the league’s management is more interested in penalising clubs than fostering growth and development,” the statement read.
“We cannot continue to be part of a system that disregards the well-being of its member clubs and prioritises punishment over fairness and justice.”
Kun Khalifat are competing in their maiden NPFL campaign, having secured promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) at the end of last season.
The latest development represents a significant setback for the newly promoted side as they continue to battle for stability in Nigeria’s top flight.
Meanwhile, El-Kanemi Warriors benefit from the decision with the automatic three points and goals, a boost that could prove crucial as the season enters a decisive phase.
