Bashir Bala, a fan who assaulted Plateau United player Temitope Vincent during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match in Lafia, has been sentenced to three months in prison or a fine option. The incident took place following a tense encounter between Nasarawa United and Plateau United, which ended 3-2 in favour of the home side, Nasarawa United.
The assault occurred after the final whistle when Bala, a spectator at the game, physically confronted Vincent. Contrary to some exaggerated reports, the clash was not as severe as initially claimed. Nasarawa United officials clarified that the fan involved in the altercation was not affiliated with their club, and the alleged stabbing was debunked. Eyewitnesses confirmed that Bala had used his fingers, not a knife, as was mistakenly reported, resulting in a minor bruise to Vincent’s neck.
Bala was arrested by police at the stadium, and a Chief Magistrate Court in Lafia sentenced him on Thursday. In addition to the fan’s punishment, the Lafia-based Nasarawa United club was handed a six million naira fine and banished to Gombe for the incident.
Despite the dramatic turn of events, Nasarawa United, currently 14th in the NPFL standings, just a point above the relegation zone, will face Bendel Insurance in their next fixture scheduled for Sunday in Benin City.
