The Nigeria Premier Football League has opened an official investigation into the state of the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin following widespread criticism of the pitch during Shooting Stars’ league match on Sunday, The PUNCH reports.
NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye confirmed on Wednesday that assessors had already been dispatched to inspect the Rasidi Yekini Stadium after viral videos showed players navigating dangerous, uneven patches on the field, while groundsmen hurriedly poured sand into holes just minutes before kick-off.
“Of what benefits is it to the NPFL if clubs are playing on substandard pitch?” Elegbeleye said.
“As at 4pm today, two people have been engaged to inspect the Rasidi Yekini Stadium and report back with pictures and videos.”
He added that clubs had been banned in the past over poor facilities, stressing that Kwara United would not be treated differently.
The controversy erupted after Shooting Stars’ sporting director, Tobi Adepoju, claimed on X that NPFL-approved poor pitches had led to multiple injuries in his squad this season — including one requiring over N3m in surgery.
“Three casualties yesterday in Ilorin, and we do not know how much it will cost us to take care of them yet,” he wrote.
The league responded with a formal reprimand, accusing him of making false claims and violating regulations against unfair criticism of officials. NPFL COO Davidson Owumi demanded a public correction and apology, warning of possible disciplinary action. He cited Abia Warriors’ recent petition over refereeing as an example of proper procedure.
Owumi emphasised that while the NFF grants club licensing, the NPFL is responsible for ensuring continuing compliance.
“Our job is to enforce compliance… If the pitch is no longer up to the standard the NFF approved and gave licence, it is our job to enforce compliance,” he said.
Elegbeleye noted that many critics misunderstand the structure of football governance, stressing that the NFF — not the league — grants facility approval.
He referenced past cases where clubs were forced away from their home grounds for failing to maintain standards, including Kwara United two seasons ago, as well as Niger Tornadoes, Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, Heartland and Abia Warriors.
He added that pre-season approvals do not prevent the NPFL from intervening once deterioration sets in.
The ongoing inspection will determine whether Kwara United can continue hosting matches at the Ilorin stadium, with the NPFL insisting that minimum safety and quality standards must be upheld to protect players and maintain the integrity of the league.