Sports

NPFL: Court Sentences Fan to Jail For Attacking Plateau United Player

Published

4 weeks ago

Apr 19, 2025.

Fan Jailed for Assault: Bashir Bala, a Nasarawa United supporter, was sentenced to three months in prison (with an option of fine) for assaulting Plateau United player Vincent Temitope after an NPFL match.
Clarification on Injury: Nasarawa United confirmed Temitope sustained only a minor neck injury and was not stabbed, as rumored. He has since resumed training.
Security Concerns Raised: The incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures at NPFL venues to prevent fan-related violence.

Bashir Bala, a supporter of Nasarawa United, has been sentenced to three months in prison by a Chief Magistrate Court in Lafia, with an option of a fine, after assaulting Vincent Temitope, a Plateau United player, on April 17, 2025.

EkoHotBlog reports that the incident took place shortly after a Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match at the Lafia City Stadium, where Nasarawa United defeated Plateau United 3-

Emotions ran high after the final whistle, leading Bala to confront and physically attack Temitope near the pitch. Police intervened swiftly and apprehended him.

Bala faced charges of assault, use of criminal force, and causing a public disturbance. He pleaded guilty in court, prompting the judge to issue a judgment that aims to deter similar violence in Nigerian football.

In response to the incident, Nasarawa United released a statement clarifying that Temitope sustained only a minor neck injury and was not stabbed, contrary to rumors. The club confirmed that the player has resumed training and remains committed to future matches.