By Wealth Oghenemaro
A Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match in Katsina turned violent on Saturday after enraged supporters of Katsina United allegedly slit the throat of Barau FC midfielder, Nana Abraham, following an equalizing goal.
The incident occurred during a tense encounter between Katsina United and Barau FC at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. Trouble began in the 69th minute when Barau FC striker, Orji Kalu, scored to level the game at 1-1. The celebration that followed quickly descended into chaos as furious home fans stormed the pitch, attacking players and officials.
Eyewitnesses said Abraham, who was standing near the touchline, was accosted by one of the invading fans who slashed his neck amid the pandemonium. Disturbing footage circulating online shows the player bleeding heavily as teammates and security personnel rushed to his aid.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Barau FC condemned the attack as “barbaric, shameful, and utterly condemnable,” confirming that Abraham was immediately taken to the hospital where he is receiving emergency medical care.
The match was promptly abandoned as riot police intervened to quell the violence. Players and officials were escorted off the field for safety, while security forces worked to disperse the rioting crowd.
Although the Nigeria Premier Football League management is yet to issue an official statement, sources within the board confirmed that an investigation has been launched. There are mounting calls for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and NPFL authorities to sanction Katsina United and strengthen stadium security protocols.
The shocking incident has reignited public outrage over persistent hooliganism in Nigerian football, with many warning that unchecked fan violence continues to threaten lives and tarnish the image of the sport.
As of press time, Barau FC confirmed that Abraham is in stable condition and under close medical observation. The club has demanded swift justice, insisting that “lawlessness and brutality must never be allowed to define the beautiful game.”
