Chaos erupted on Saturday during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash between Katsina United and Barau Football Club, after a Barau player, Nana Abraham, was brutally attacked and left with a deep neck wound by enraged home fans.
The violence broke out moments after Orji Kalu of Barau FC scored a 69th-minute equaliser to level the match at 1–1 — a goal that appeared to infuriate sections of the Katsina crowd.
Confirming the incident on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Barau FC wrote:
“70’ The match is temporarily halted following an attack on Barau FC player, Nana Abraham. Katsina United | 1–1 | Barau FC.”
Just moments before, the club had celebrated Kalu’s goal with another post:
“69’ Goal! Orji Kalu levels the scores. Katsina United | 1–1 | Barau FC.”
A distressing image obtained by Olisa Kingsley on X showed Abraham bleeding profusely from a deep neck cut as teammates and officials struggled to restore calm on the pitch.
The match, played at the Mohammed Dikko Stadium in Katsina, was temporarily suspended as security operatives battled to control the situation.
As of press time, there had been no official statement from either the NPFL management or Katsina United.
The incident has reignited concerns over fan violence and poor security at Nigerian football venues, prompting renewed calls for decisive disciplinary action against those responsible and the club.
