The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) witnessed a tumultuous conclusion on Match Day 19 as the fixture between hosts Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and Enyimba International ended in chaos.
Despite Enyimba securing a 2-1 victory, the post-match scenes turned chaotic as disgruntled home fans vented their frustration, accusing match officials of bias.
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In a tumultuous aftermath, some 3SC supporters sought out the match officials, alleging that a crucial goal was unfairly denied in the fourth minute of second-half added time.
The chaos ensued just moments before substitute Izuogu Chibueze netted Enyimba’s second goal. The disgruntled fans, agitated by perceived officiating injustices, forced the match officials to be hurriedly escorted out of the stadium in an ambulance.
Specifically targeting the center referee and second assistant referee, the irate fans claimed the center referee had been involved in six away matches played by Enyimba.
Another faction sought out 3SC management officials, with a focus on club chairman Babatunde Olaniyan, holding him responsible for alleged unfair officiating appointments.
Amidst the confusion, the 3SC technical crew opted to forego the post-match news conference, a departure from their usual practice. The club’s Technical Adviser, Gbenga Ogunbote, who is typically present, was notably absent.
While the club’s Media Officer, Tosin Omojola, provided no official explanation, it was learned that the home team feared potential attacks from their own enraged fans.
“No one is safe at this moment. We will rather stay in our dressing room until everything calmed down,” revealed an anonymous club official.
The fury of the fans eventually turned towards stadium facilities, resulting in the vandalism of doors and windows in the dressing rooms and the mixed zone area.
Despite the chaotic aftermath, Enyimba secured the victory during the match, with Chijioke Mbaoma, Kareem Ademola, and Chibueze featuring prominently in the scoring action.
The incident underscores the passion and intensity that football ignites, occasionally spiraling into unfortunate episodes of fan unrest.
