Plateau United Football Club has raised alarm over a series of unsettling incidents that marred their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 13 fixture against Ikorodu City FC in Lagos, urging football authorities to launch a full investigation into the matter.
According to an official statement from the club, the trouble began even before kickoff. Plateau United revealed that they were denied the standard exclusive pre-match training session as required for all NPFL clubs. Upon arriving for their scheduled training on Saturday, the team was reportedly forced to share the pitch with Ikorodu City after the host team’s chairman, Mr. Sanmi Doherty, allegedly insisted that both teams must train at the same time. This development left Plateau United training late into the evening under poor lighting conditions—a situation they reported to league authorities but received no solution before matchday.
The situation escalated dramatically at halftime with the game still tied 0–0. Members of Plateau United’s technical crew noticed commotion around the referees’ dressing area, where a group of individuals believed to be under the influence of alcohol were causing disturbances. Goalkeeper Coach Ayo Segun was allegedly attacked while attempting to alert officials and safeguard fellow staff members.
Efforts by the club’s Sporting Director, Barrister Gideon Izang, and Chief Security Officer, Mr. David Itumu, to file a formal complaint with the Match Commissioner were thwarted. In the ensuing chaos, Mr. Itumu was reportedly assaulted by more than four individuals, sustaining injuries that required medical attention. Barrister Izang also suffered an injury to his hand after his phone was forcefully taken by individuals attempting to check if he had recorded the incident.
Plateau United confirmed that they possess visual evidence of parts of the ordeal, which will be submitted to the appropriate authorities as part of their formal complaint.
Despite their disappointment, the club maintained a calm and measured tone, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to peace, fairness, and professionalism. They reiterated that football must remain a safe environment for players, officials, and fans alike.
The club is now calling on the NPFL, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and security agencies to conduct a fair, transparent, and comprehensive investigation. Plateau United believes that uncovering the truth and addressing any wrongdoing will not only prevent the recurrence of such incidents but also strengthen trust in Nigerian football and uphold the integrity of the game.
“Plateau United will fully cooperate with all authorities,” the statement read, reaffirming the club’s dedication to discipline, respect, and fair play.
Reports reaching Nikau Sports is that a formal petition will be submitted to the league body.
The football community now awaits the response of the relevant authorities as concerns grow over safety and procedural integrity within the NPFL.