A Chief Magistrate Court in Lafia has convicted Nasarawa United fan Bashir Bala to three months in prison with the possibility of a fine for attacking Plateau United player Vincent Temitope on April 17, 2025.
The attack happened following Nasarawa United’s 3-2 victory over Plateau United in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) at Lafia City Stadium. Bala attacked Temitope close to the field as tensions increased following the final whistle, and the Nigeria Police responded quickly.
Bala was accused of public disturbance, assault, and criminal force. He entered a guilty plea in court, which resulted in the judge’s decision—a strong cautionary tale about violence in Nigerian football.
In a statement, Nasawara United refuted reports of a stabbing by stating that Temitope merely sustained a minor neck injury. Since then, the player has returned to training, reaffirming his dedication to the team’s upcoming games.
This court decision emphasizes how important it is to have more security at NPFL games in order to stop violence from fans.
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