Ahmed Musa, captain of the Super Eagles and general manager of Kano Pillars, has expressed a profound and heartfelt apology following the violent disturbances that overshadowed the recent Nigeria Premier Football League match between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars Sports Club at Sani Abacha Stadium, according to Soccernet.ng.
After the match ended in a 1-1 draw, home supporters stormed the pitch, launching attacks on Shooting Stars players and match officials as tensions escalated during stoppage time.
In an emotional message released Sunday evening, Musa condemned the events as “devastating, disgraceful, and utterly unacceptable.”
The ex-Leicester City star emphasized that such violent conduct contradicts the proud legacy and core principles of Kano Pillars Football Club.
“Football Must Remain Free of Violence,” Declares Musa
Serving both as a player and the club’s general manager, Musa openly expressed his regret, extending apologies to Shooting Stars, match officials, the NPFL board, and football enthusiasts nationwide.
“I, Ahmed Musa, as General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, sincerely apologize for the distressing and shameful events that unfolded during our fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club on Sunday evening.
“The actions witnessed are deeply upsetting, dishonourable, and do not reflect the ethos, identity, or esteemed history of Kano Pillars.”
I, Ahmed Musa, the General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, extend my deepest and most sincere apologies for the unfortunate, painful, and disgraceful incident that occurred during our game against Shooting Stars Sports Club on Sunday evening.
What transpired against…– Ahmed Musa (MON) (OON) ️️ (@Ahmedmusa718) October 12, 2025
The former Al Nassr forward pledged full cooperation with authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the chaos.
“There is absolutely no room for violence in football. Such behaviour is indefensible and contradicts the spirit of this beautiful game,” Musa stated.
“We recognize that apologies alone are insufficient; meaningful actions must follow.”
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Fan Outrage Erupts Following Disallowed Goal
The unrest ignited shortly after Shooting Stars’ Adams Mustapha netted a stoppage-time equalizer, cancelling out an earlier goal by Kano Pillars’ Mustapha Jibrin.
Earlier in the match, Kano Pillars believed they had secured a second goal, but it was ruled out for offside, sparking fury among the home crowd. With no VAR technology available in the NPFL and inconclusive video evidence, frustration quickly escalated.
THIS IS BARBARIC!!!
Kano Pillars running after the ref after Shooting Stars equalised against Kano Pillars.
SAD. pic.twitter.com/5SDMmiPo9G– POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) October 12, 2025
At the final whistle, enraged supporters invaded the field, pursuing match officials and assaulting Shooting Stars players and coaching staff. Security forces intervened to safeguard the visitors and referees, escorting them to safety under heavy protection.
Recurring Fan Violence Puts Kano Pillars Under the Microscope
This incident adds to a troubling history of fan-related disturbances linked to the four-time NPFL champions.
Since 2019, Kano Pillars have faced fines exceeding ₦36 million due to repeated episodes of crowd violence and unruly behaviour by their supporters.
Musa took ownership of the club’s role in these events and appealed to fans to express their enthusiasm constructively.
“To our devoted supporters, I want to address you directly. Genuine backing is demonstrated not through aggression, but through respect, passion, and self-control.
“This moment must serve as a catalyst for change. We need to show the world that our dedication to this club can be a force for good, not destruction.”
The 31-year-old leader also committed to implementing reforms within the club to prevent any recurrence of such disgraceful episodes.
“We accept full responsibility and will take all necessary steps to rebuild trust, uphold respect, and preserve the true spirit of football in Kano and throughout Nigeria.”
Reactions from the League and the Public
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) board is set to investigate the incident thoroughly, with possible disciplinary actions against Kano Pillars.
Shooting Stars have publicly condemned the violent behaviour of the Kano Pillars fans in an official statement.
CLUB STATEMENT ON MATCHDAY 8 INCIDENT pic.twitter.com/rwoqfjfpUx
– Shooting Stars SC (@ShootingSc) October 12, 2025
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation on social media, with fans and analysts demanding stronger measures to combat hooliganism and ensure player safety.
As Musa’s apology gains traction, many commend his leadership and humility, hoping his commitment will usher in meaningful reforms for one of Nigeria’s most celebrated football clubs.
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