The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) reeled from shocking violence on Saturday after Barau FC’s Ghanaian midfielder, Nana Kwame Abraham, suffered a knife attack from a fan during his team’s clash with Katsina United.
The attack erupted at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium shortly after Orji Kalu scored the equaliser for Barau FC, silencing the home supporters. Furious fans charged onto the pitch and confronted Abraham, who played a key role in the move that led to the goal.
Eyewitnesses said one supporter stabbed the player amid the chaos as security forces fought to contain the invasion. Players and officials sprinted for safety while teammates carried Abraham off the field before medical staff rushed him to a nearby hospital. Doctors continue to monitor his condition.
Barau FC confirmed the attack on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, stating that the match was called off as authorities restored order. Images circulating online showed players and fans in shock as emergency workers treated the midfielder.
The NPFL has not yet issued a statement, but fans and analysts have condemned the violence and urged the league to impose strong sanctions and tighten stadium security.
This marks the latest in a troubling series of violent incidents in Nigerian football, deepening fears about player safety.
Sources close to Barau FC said Abraham remains in critical but stable condition as messages of support pour in from across the football community.
