A thrilling Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) clash between Nasarawa United and Plateau United on Sunday, April 13, 2025, turned into a nightmare after Nasarawa supporters stormed the pitch and stabbed Plateau United forward Vincent Temitope in the neck.
Although the match ended 3-2 in favor of Nasarawa United at the Lafia Township Stadium, Temitope’s standout performance — including a goal and a won penalty — infuriated sections of the home crowd. The forward’s impact on the game was perceived as a threat to the home team’s victory by some supporters, leading to violence immediately after the final whistle.
Eyewitnesses confirmed to SaharaReporters that fans breached the stadium perimeter and launched a targeted attack on Temitope, stabbing him in the neck in front of shocked players and officials.
Inadequate Security Blamed for Chaos at Lafia Stadium
Sources say security at the stadium was alarmingly insufficient, with fewer than 20 police officers deployed to control a crowd of thousands.
“The number of officers was not enough to manage the crowd or protect the players,” one eyewitness revealed. “As soon as the final whistle blew, fans stormed the pitch, and the police were overwhelmed.”
Plateau United Confirms Player’s Condition
Plateau United’s Director of Media Operations, Yaksat Maklek, confirmed the attack and said Temitope was immediately taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital in Lafia, where he received emergency treatment.
“He’s now in stable condition and recovering well,” Maklek stated.
Fan Violence Returns Weeks After Stadium Ban Lifted
The violent incident has ignited national concern over recurring fan violence in Nigerian football, especially within the NPFL. It is particularly alarming given that Nasarawa United had only recently been allowed to welcome supporters back into the stadium following a prior suspension for similar misconduct.
The NPFL lifted the fan ban just a week before the attack, with strict conditions for improved security and discipline. Nasarawa United’s Director of Media, Eche Amos, had urged fans to act responsibly and obey security protocols when the announcement was made.
Police Investigating Assault on Temitope
The Nasarawa State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident and vowed to ensure justice. However, critics say the league and local authorities must do more to protect players, match officials, and spectators from violence.
The attack has reignited calls for stricter stadium security measures and harsher penalties for clubs that fail to control their fans.
—Sahara Reporters
