NPFL: SWAN Condemns Brutal Attack On Rivers United Players, Management

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Rivers State Chapter, has issued a strong condemnation of the brutal attack on Rivers United FC players and management team by fans of Kwara United FC in Ilorin, following Rivers United’s equaliser which secured a point in the match.

This condemnation was articulated in a statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Cyril Dum Wite and Com Tonye Orabere, respectively.

SWAN’s Rivers State Chapter has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the management of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) to hold the perpetrators accountable and impose stricter penalties on the club management for failing to control their fans.

“We unequivocally condemn the barbaric and inhumane behaviour directed at Rivers United players and management team.

“It is unfortunate that such despicable conduct is displayed at a time when the NPFL is receiving commendations both domestically and internationally.

“This troubling trend has undoubtedly brought the NPFL into disrepute and public ridicule. If left unchecked, there may come a time when teams will no longer feel safe attending away games,” the statement read.

SWAN took this opportunity to advise all club owners to educate their fans on proper conduct during and after matches.

“We are deeply saddened that football, a game synonymous with peace, unity, and love, has devolved into something else. This is, frankly, disgraceful and tarnishes the image of the Nigerian League.