NPFL, however, disclosed that the player sustained an injury after being hit by an object thrown from the stands.
By Kehinde Okeowo .
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has countered trending online claims that a Barau FC player, Abraham Nana, had his throat slit after Saturday’s Matchday 12 encounter against Katsina United.
The NPFL made the clarification about the incident on Sunday in a statement released after the match.
In the game played at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina, the home side took the lead in the 38th minute through Uche Collins.
However, the visitors equalised in the 68th minute of the match after Orji Okagbue scored for Barau FC.
Following the league encounter, there were widespread reports online of a violent attack on a player from the visiting team.
Reacting to the innuendoes, the NPFL admitted that an unfortunate incident took place but insisted it was not as severe as claimed.
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It went on to say the player only sustained an injury after being hit by an object thrown from the stands, not from any physical assault with a weapon.
The league body further explained that the player received immediate medical treatment on the pitch, adding that the incident resulted in a brief stoppage of play before the match resumed.
“Reports of a violent attack, including claims that Barau FC’s player, Abraham Nana, had his throat slit, are completely false,” the statement read.
The NPFL also stated that its situation room, which actively monitors all league matches in real time through match commissioners, remained in close contact with officials of both teams and received firsthand updates throughout the incident.
“Through this platform, we monitor and manage affairs to ensure matches proceed without incident,” the statement added.
The league management confirmed that appropriate sanctions have already been imposed on Katsina United after reviewing reports from the referee and Match Commissioner, who both identified security lapses and fan misconduct during the game.
“The NPFL will continue to uphold the rules to ensure fair competition and a thrilling league experience in a safe environment,” the statement concluded.
