Plateau United FC has strongly denied allegations that its supporters attacked players and staff of Rangers International FC following their 0-0 draw in a Matchday 11 fixture at the New Jos Stadium. In a statement released by the club’s media officer, Yaksat Maklek, the club refuted reports circulating on social media showing an injured Rangers player, as well as images and videos of damage to the visiting team’s bus.
The statement, posted on the club’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, insisted that Plateau United had no involvement in the incident and knew nothing of any alleged attack by its supporters. “We are a peaceful club who believe in the sporting principles of winning, losing, or drawing,” said the statement. “We are committed to maintaining law and order in our stadium and will continue to work towards ensuring the safety and security of all teams and their supporters.”
According to reports, tensions flared after the match ended in a goalless draw, with Enugu Rangers players and staff allegedly being targeted by irate home supporters. Photographs and videos shared across social media platforms depicted one of the Rangers players with a bloodied face (Pictured below), sparking outrage among fans and onlookers. In addition to the reported physical altercation, there were also claims that Rangers’ team bus was vandalized by angry Plateau United supporters.
Habila Hosea Mutla, the General Manager of Plateau United, also commented on the matter, expressing his surprise at the allegations. He emphasized that the club prides itself on fostering a respectful and fair playing environment. “We do not condone violence of any kind, and we are investigating the situation,” Mutla stated. “Our club’s ethos is to ensure peaceful conduct, and we expect the same from our supporters.”
Despite the claims, there has been no official confirmation from local authorities regarding the incident. The situation has led to a growing debate among Nigerian football fans and pundits, with some calling for increased security at stadiums to prevent such incidents from escalating in the future.
The Plateau United-Rangers encounter had already been tense, with both teams battling fiercely for supremacy in the Nigerian Professional Football League. However, the post-match allegations have overshadowed what was otherwise a competitive fixture.
As the investigation continues, Plateau United remains adamant that their supporters were not involved in any violent behavior, and the club is cooperating with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of all parties involved.
The club also reiterated its commitment to maintaining good relations with other teams and their supporters, underscoring the importance of sportsmanship in Nigerian football.
Enugu Rangers has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident, but the disturbing images of the bloodied player and the damaged vehicle have raised concerns over player safety and the security arrangements at Nigerian football matches.
