Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) newcomers Kun Khalifat have made a swift U-turn on their decision to quit the competition, confirming their return less than 24 hours after announcing their withdrawal over disciplinary sanctions.
themomentng reports that the Owerri-based club had earlier pulled out of the NPFL following their failed Matchday 24 fixture against El Kanemi Warriors, accusing the league authorities of unfair treatment and excessive punishment.
The NPFL board sanctioned Kun Khalifat in line with league regulations, which allow fines of up to ₦10 million, forfeiture of fixtures and the deduction of three points and three goals for failure to honour matches.
Although the fine imposed on Kun Khalifat was suspended, the club’s leadership reacted strongly. In a now-deleted statement, chief executive Michael Amaefula said, “The decision to forfeit three points and three goals, coupled with a fine of ₦10m, is not only disproportionate but a clear indication of the NPFL’s bias against our club. We believe the sanctions are a travesty of justice and demonstrate a lack of willingness to engage clubs fairly and transparently.”
He added, “As a result of these unfair sanctions, we, Kun Khalifat 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 prioritises punishment over fairness and justice.”
However, NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi told The Punch that the league had not formally received any withdrawal notice. Following renewed talks, the club confirmed its reinstatement on Thursday.
“Kun Khalifat FC is pleased to announce its return to the Nigerian Premier Football League following positive discussions with the League Management Board,” Amaefula said in a fresh statement. “We appreciate the League Management Board’s willingness to listen and address our concerns. We look forward to a more collaborative and productive relationship moving forward.”
The club will resume action immediately, facing Shooting Stars on Sunday, February at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.
This marks the second withdrawal-related controversy involving Kun Khalifat since their rapid rise through Nigerian football. After 24 matches, they sit bottom of the NPFL table with 22 points as they continue their fight to avoid relegation.
