NPFL: Chaos in Ilorin as late Rivers United equaliser sparks fans fury
A dramatic Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash between Kwara United and Rivers United descended into chaos on Wednesday after enraged home supporters attacked match officials and trapped the visiting team inside the stadium following a controversial late equaliser.
Trouble erupted at the final whistle after Rivers United forward David Sholumade struck deep into stoppage time, netting in the 90+3 minute to cancel out Mohammed Shamsudeen’s 32nd-minute opener for Kwara United.
The late goal sparked outrage among sections of the home crowd, who believed their goalkeeper Suraju Ayeleso had been fouled in the build up.
Angry supporters invaded restricted areas, confronting the referee and assistants, while others hurled plastic chairs and bottled water in protest.
In the aftermath, Rivers United General Manager Okey Kpalukwu was caught in the violence and reportedly sustained facial injuries, with blood seen streaming down his face in a video that has since gone viral on social media.
Security personnel were overwhelmed as the situation spiralled, with eyewitnesses claiming that fewer than 20 police officers were present to control a crowd of about 5,000 spectators.
The tension did not end there, as aggrieved fans reportedly blockaded the main exit of the stadium for more than 30 minutes, preventing Rivers United players, officials, and match referees from leaving the venue.
The visiting delegation was effectively held hostage inside the stadium until calm was gradually restored.
Although no deaths were recorded, the extent of injuries sustained by match officials and team personnel remains uncertain.
As of the time of filing this report, NPFL organisers and security authorities have yet to issue an official statement, but the disturbing scenes are expected to trigger fresh concerns over stadium security, fan behaviour, and the enforcement of safety regulations in Nigerian football.
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