Kwara United F.C. has distanced itself from the crowd disturbance that followed its Nigeria Premier Football League Gameweek 22 fixture against Rivers United F.C. in Ilorin, describing the development as deeply troubling.
The rescheduled encounter, played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Agbazika Innih Stadium, ended in a 1–1 stalemate.
However, the result was overshadowed by chaos that reportedly broke out moments after the referee signalled full time.
In a statement released on Wednesday and sighted by The PUNCH in Ilorin, the club expressed strong displeasure over the incident, particularly reports that Chief Okey Kpalukwu, the Chairman of Chairmen in the Nigeria Premier Football League, was targeted during the unrest.
The management said it viewed the development with “serious concern and regret,” stressing that the conduct of those involved was inconsistent with the ethos of the club.
“We are deeply disturbed by the events that occurred after the match and unequivocally denounce every act of violence recorded,” the statement read.
Kwara United maintained that discipline, fairness and respect for officials and opponents remain fundamental principles that must guide football engagements.
“Respect for match officials, administrators, visiting teams and fellow supporters is non-negotiable. Football must be played and enjoyed in the spirit of sportsmanship,” the club added.
While acknowledging the passion of its fan base, the management insisted that the actions of a few individuals should not define the broader supporter community known for peaceful conduct.
“The behaviour exhibited by certain persons does not reflect the identity or values of our loyal supporters,” it stated.
The club extended apologies to Chief Kpalukwu, the Rivers United delegation, match officials, security agencies and spectators who may have been affected by the disturbance.
“We sincerely apologise to all parties impacted by the incident and regret the discomfort and harm it may have caused,” the statement noted.
Kwara United further pledged to collaborate with security agencies and league authorities to ensure that those responsible are identified and sanctioned in line with existing regulations.
“We will cooperate fully with relevant authorities to investigate the matter and ensure accountability,” the club assured.
It also appealed for calm among supporters, announcing plans to intensify fan education and engagement initiatives aimed at promoting responsible behaviour at match venues.
“We call on our fans to remain composed and united as we strengthen sensitisation and re-orientation programmes to foster a safe and welcoming football environment,” it said.
Reaffirming its dedication to fair play, the club emphasised its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Nigeria Premier Football League and maintaining Ilorin as a secure host city for topflight matches.
Incidents of crowd violence have remained a recurring concern in the domestic league.
Earlier this season, supporters of Kano Pillars F.C. reportedly attacked players and officials of Shooting Stars Sports Club after a tense encounter at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
The match, which also ended in a draw, degenerated into chaos as irate fans invaded the pitch, prompting security intervention.
The Nigeria Premier Football League subsequently imposed sanctions on the host club as part of efforts to deter further acts of hooliganism and restore order at match centres across the country. (Punch)
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