Imo State’s Kun Khalifat FC Abandons NPFL Amid Sanctions Dispute

Kun Khalifat FC of Imo State has withdrawn from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following sanctions imposed on the club for missing a match against El-Kanemi Warriors.

The club cited logistical challenges, including vehicle breakdown, as the reason for not honoring the fixture.

The NPFL had deducted three points and three goals from Kun Khalifat, awarding them to El-Kanemi Warriors, and imposed a ₦10 million fine.

The club described the sanctions as “outrageous and disproportionate,” claiming valid reasons were provided but rejected by the league.

“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 club’s statement said.

“We believe that the sanctions are a travesty of justice and demonstrate a lack of willingness to engage with clubs in a fair and transparent manner”.

Kun Khalifat FC CEO, Michael Amaefula, expressed shock, disappointment, and outrage over the NPFL’s decision, stating that the club had informed the league about the logistical challenges.

“As a result of these unfair sanctions, we, Kun Khalifat FC, hereby announce our immediate withdrawal from the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL),” the statement added.

The club accused the NPFL of ignoring their communication and unilaterally rescheduling the match, prioritizing punishment over fairness and justice.

“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”.

Demanding greater transparency, Kun Khalifat FC has called on NPFL stakeholders to push for urgent administrative reforms following its withdrawal from the league.

The club intends to seek new avenues for its players while continuing to contribute to the national football landscape.

Persecondnews reports that the NPFL remains silent on the matter, but the withdrawal has sparked a wider conversation about equity and leadership in Nigerian football.

By citing unsustainable financial and logistical demands, Kun Khalifat FC’s exit marks a significant crisis for the 2025/26 season, raising serious questions about how the league supports its member clubs.