Gate Fees Scrapped: Kun Khalifat’s Desperate Bid to Fill Stands

Facing the intense pressure of the relegation battle, Kun Khalifat FC has undertaken an extraordinary measure, announcing the complete scrapping of all gate fees for their remaining home matches in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. This decisive action is a clear reflection of the club’s desperate need to mobilize a massive home crowd and leverage the power of fan support to secure vital points.

The club, situated precariously in the lower echelons of the league table, officially conveyed the strategic move in a statement released on Friday by President Micheal Amaefula. The initiative is intended to dramatically boost attendance at the Dan Anyiam Stadium and transform it into an intimidating arena for visiting teams, thus aiding the team’s fight for survival.

Kun Khalifat FC currently occupies the 18th position in the NPFL standings, having secured only 13 points from 13 games. This places them firmly within the relegation zone, which is why the removal of the financial barrier is seen as a necessary, high-stakes gamble.

Amaefula confirmed that the free admission policy would commence immediately with their next home fixture against a direct rival: “Starting with our next NPFL home game against Plateau United on Sunday, November 30, the gates at the Dan Anyiam Stadium will be thrown completely free of charge. From that match onward every home game for the remainder of the season will be free access for all.”

The upcoming match against Plateau United is particularly crucial; Plateau United sits just above them in 16th position with 15 points, making the encounter a literal six-pointer in the fight to avoid the drop. The decision to make this and subsequent games free underscores the belief within the club’s hierarchy that home support could be the decisive factor in their bid to beat the drop.

Amaefula’s statement stressed that the initiative is intended to “boost support for the Pride of Imo State” and bring the thrilling experience of the NPFL closer to the local populace. However, the underlying strategic goal is undeniable: generating a powerful atmosphere to gain a competitive edge.

While the attention is currently focused on the November 30th home game, the team’s immediate focus remains on their challenging away fixture this weekend against Warri Wolves in Ozoro. The result of that match will set the tone for the subsequent return to the Dan Anyiam Stadium, where the club will be hoping their unprecedented free gate policy translates directly into improved home form and a climb out of the relegation mire. The move is a significant talking point in the league, highlighting the high pressure surrounding the fight for NPFL survival.