Rangers players and officials were reportedly ambushed and attacked by Plateau United fans near the Jos International Stadium on Sunday after a goalless draw between the two sides.
According to report, a player, Daniel Onyia, sustained head injuries after being struck by stones thrown at the team’s bus along Zaria Road as they made their way back to their hotel after the game. The attack, which shattered four bus windows and injured multiple players, began after fans expressed dissatisfaction at the final whistle.
Meanwhile, Rangers International FC’s management, led by Amobi Ezeaku has filed a petition to the NPFL organisers over the incident.
The petition cites the inability of Plateau United to provide adequate security before, during, and especially after the match for the visiting team, Rangers, as a major reason for the violent incident that brought bodily harm and psychological trauma to players and officials of Rangers.
The club, in the petition, also noted that the attack negates the true spirit of what the game of football preaches. The statement called for immediate sanction to be meted out to Plateau United to serve as a deterrent to other clubs in the NPFL.
A statement from the club’s general manager, Amobi Ezeaku, to the fans described the attack as unwarranted.
He said, “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 the necessary steps to ensure that justice is done,” he said.
Mr Ezeaku noted that a petition has been submitted to relevant authorities, promising that the club will do everything necessary to ensure that the issue is thoroughly addressed and resolved.
‘Under this administration, the symbol of our great club must never be disrespected, and we will go to any length to preserve its honour and legacy”.
“Our commitment to upholding the values and pride of Rangers is unwavering,” he said
The Rangers GM noted that the players and technical crew are safe and will arrive at their Enugu base today.
He thanked the supporters for their support and prayers, adding that the team remains motivated to continue to represent the team.
Reacting, Plateau United dismissed the involvement of its fans in the said attack on Rangers United.
A statement by Yaksat Maklek, on behalf of the Club management, noted that players and officials of Rangers International of Enugu departed the New Jos Stadium Safely without any form of molestation.
He further explained that the technical team had successfully held a post-match interview at the Media Conference Room before departing.
“On cross-examination, reports say the visiting team had covered almost two kilometres from the Stadium facility before the incident occurred.
“While it remains unclear how and why the incident occurred, it is key to note that once the visiting team leaves the parameters of the stadium, security pulls off the grasp of the host team by jurisdiction.
“While Plateau United FC condemns any form of hooliganism amongst its fan base, the club is insistent it knows nothing about the attack nor has anything to do with the accused persons that attacked,” the statement said
The statement also quoted the club’s general manager, Habila Hosea Mutla, as saying, “We are a peaceful club who believe in either of three outcomes when we step out for an encounter, which is to win, lose, or draw.
“Hence, we will do everything within our powers to maintain law and order within the stadium perimeter.”
