The management of Rangers International FC led by Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, submitted a strong petition to the league organisers over the incident.
In the petition, it cited the inability of Plateau United to provide adequate security before, during and especially, after the match for the visiting team as the major reason for the violent incident that brought bodily harm and psychological trauma to players and officials of Rangers.
The petition also contained that the attack negates the true spirit of what the game of football preaches thereby bringing the game to disrepute, therefore called for immediate sanction of Plateau United, in order to serve as a deterrent to other clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
However, the General Manager of Rangers FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, described the attack as unwarranted and bringing the game to disrepute.
“We wish to inform you of the unfortunate incident that occurred during our match against Plateau United in Jos.
“The attack on our team is unwarranted and we are taking all necessary steps to ensure that Justice is done,” he said.
Meanwhile, according to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred as the Rangers team was leaving the Jos International Stadium, with fans throwing stones and pebbles at the team’s bus. One player, Daniel Onyia, was seriously injured, suffering a head wound from a stone thrown by the angry fans.
The Toyota Coaster bus conveying the players was also damaged, with four side windshields shattered. Other players were also hit by the stones, but their injuries were not as severe.
“As the players and official buses made to leave the stadium, there were loud bangs on the bodies of the buses as the drivers made a quick dash towards the exit gate.
“On its way to where the team was lodged after making a turn at the Farringada round-about, the fans that laid an ambush in front of the stadium, pelted the players’ bus with large stones with one of them catching the young midfielder on the face and beside the left eye.
“The bus had to make an emergency stop at the Alherri area near St. Murumba College, Jos, where the team medical personnel administered treatment on the injured player.”
The attack is believed to have been sparked by Plateau United fans’ frustration with the goalless draw, which denied their team the maximum three points.
The League Management and that of Plateau United have yet to make any public statement on the incident.
Read also: Oyo Govrt: Lekan Salami Models Pick for FIFA Stadiums
Jerome Kalu
Jerome Kalu is currently the Senior Correspondent of PIJAlance in Lagos. He was previously the Campus Information Desk (CID) Editor.