Bashir Bala, a Nasarawa United supporter, has been sentenced by a Chief Magistrate Court in Lafia to three months in prison, with an option to pay a fine, following his attack on Vincent Temitope, a player for Plateau United, on April 17, 2025.
The assault occurred after the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match, where Nasarawa United defeated Plateau United 3-2 at the Lafia City Stadium. As tensions flared after the final whistle, Bala attacked Temitope near the pitch, prompting a swift response from the Nigeria Police.
Bala was charged with assault, criminal force, and public disturbance. In court, he pleaded guilty, leading to the judge’s ruling, which serves as a stern warning against violence in Nigerian football.
Nasawara United issued a statement clarifying that Temitope only suffered a minor neck injury, dispelling rumors of a stabbing. The player has since resumed training, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s future matches.
This legal outcome highlights the growing need for enhanced security measures at NPFL fixtures to prevent fan-related violence.
