A frightening development following Sunday’s NPFL game has left football stakeholders and supporters extremely alarmed by a Plateau United striker attack incident.
After a 3-2 loss against Nasarawa United at the Lafia City Stadium, an irate supporter is said to have stabbed Vincent Temitope, one of Plateau United’s best forwards, in the neck.
According to a statement issued by Yaksat Maklek, Director of Media Operations for Plateau United, the attack took place shortly after the final whistle.
Temitope, who scored one of the team’s two goals, was approached by a group of fans pretending to take photos with him.
“After the game, a couple of fans went close to him pretending they wanted to take some snapshots and one of them struck him in the neck,” Maklek explained.
“They say he held a knife and struck him in the neck. You would imagine how worst it would have been if he [the player] did not escape that particular attack.”
This incident, viewed by many as deeply painful and disappointing, has sparked conversations around player safety and fan conduct at football venues.
Regardless of the match result, many believe such acts should never be condoned in sports.
Moreover, Maklek disclosed that Vincent Temitope was immediately rushed to the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Lafia.
There, he received urgent medical attention and was stabilized.
According to the club, the player is now in a safe condition and recovering well.
In addition, Plateau United has reportedly gathered all necessary evidence relating to the attack.
The documents and proof, Maklek noted, will be presented to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) management for investigation.
The club expects the league body to take disciplinary actions against those found guilty.
This incident has raised concern among stakeholders, who believe fans should remain loyal to their teams, even in the face of loss.
Meanwhile, Temitope’s football journey had recently taken a promising turn.
Having joined Plateau United last year, he was recently named to the Super Eagles B training squad for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The attack, therefore, comes at a time when his career seemed to be gaining major traction.
Furthermore, the league body has been urged by many to enforce stricter stadium security policies.
This, they believe, will protect players and encourage a safer environment for both fans and athletes alike.
