Kun Khalifat Withdraws from NPFL

Kun Khalifat FC has announced its immediate withdrawal from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after being sanctioned for failing to appear for their Matchday 24 fixture against El Kanemi Warriors.

The controversy began on Monday when the newly promoted club, currently at the bottom of the league table, did not show up for the scheduled match.

In response, the NPFL board charged Kun Khalifat with a breach of the league’s Framework and Rules.

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The league imposed a penalty that included the deduction of three points and three goals, which were awarded to El Kanemi Warriors.

Additionally, the club was handed a suspended fine of ₦10 million, to be enforced if a similar violation occurs before the end of the 2025–26 season. Kun Khalifat was given 48 hours to appeal the ruling.

However, instead of appealing, the club issued a statement on Wednesday night confirming its withdrawal from the league.

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In a strongly worded announcement, Kun Khalifat CEO Michael Amaefula stated that the club was prevented from honouring the fixture by circumstances beyond its control and had informed the NPFL of these issues in advance.

“We write to express our utmost shock, disappointment, and outrage following the sanctions imposed upon our club,” the statement read.

“Our previous letter dated 1st February 2026, detailed the circumstances that led to our inability to participate in the match. We had informed the NPFL Board of our challenges, including the breakdown of our team’s vehicles, and sought their understanding.”

The club accused the league of ignoring their communication and acting unfairly.

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“Instead of acknowledging our communication, the Board chose to unilaterally reschedule the match and subsequently imposed harsh sanctions upon our club. The decision to forfeit 3 points and 3 goals, coupled with a fine of N10m, is not only disproportionate but a clear indication of the NPFL’s bias against our club.”

The statement concluded by declaring the club’s exit from the competition.

“As a result of these unfair sanctions, we, Kun Khalifa FC, hereby announce our immediate withdrawal from the Nigerian Premier Football League. We can no longer continue to be part of a league that disregards the challenges faced by its member clubs and prioritizes punishment over fairness and justice.”

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The club also called on the NPFL to review its policies and urged other teams to push for greater accountability from league management. Despite the withdrawal, Kun Khalifat affirmed its commitment to Nigerian football, stating, “We will continue to explore other avenues to showcase our talents and represent Nigerian football with pride.”

The NPFL has not yet released an official response to the club’s withdrawal.