The 2025–2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) ban was issued by Kun Khalifa FC in protest of what the team called a “unfair sanction” from the league’s administrators.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Michael Amaefula, the club’s CEO, declared that Kun Khalifa will no longer take part in a league “that ignores the difficulties its member clubs face and puts punishment ahead of justice and fairness.”
The Imo-based team was disciplined by the NPFL for failing to travel to Maiduguri for their Matchday 24 match against El Kanemi Warriors on February 2, 2026. Kun Khalifa was docked three points and three goals in addition to a ₦10 million fine after the league determined that the excuses given for missing the match were “unacceptable.”
However, Kun Khalifa FC maintained that it had officially informed the NPFL of its logistical challenges, “including the breakdown of our team’s vehicles,” and charged the league with disregarding those messages. The match was “unilaterally” rearranged without sufficient consultation, according to the club.
“The decision to forfeit three goals and three points, along with a N10 million fine, is not only disproportionate but a clear indication of the NPFL’s bias against our club,” the statement said.
“We think that the penalties are a mockery of justice and show a lack of will to interact with clubs in a fair and open manner.
“We implore the NPFL to examine its rules and practices to guarantee that clubs get equitable and respectful treatment. We also urge other clubs to hold the league administration accountable and demand reforms.
Along with Remo Stars, Ikorodu City, and Barau FC, Kun Khalifa FC is one of four privately owned teams in the 2025–2026 NPFL season. After a quick ascent through the lower divisions in just five years, they are making their debut in Nigeria’s top flight with this season.
The team made a public plea for financial assistance in August 2025 to cover the expenses of playing in the NPFL, acknowledging that it could find it difficult to complete away games without help.
When Ocean Boys was dismissed in 2012 after missing four straight games, it was the last occasion a club failed to finish an NPFL season.
