The bus conveying players and officials of Kano Pillars was attacked by men of the underworld on their way to Owerri for their league opener against Heartland of Owerri. The incident occurred along Abaji - Lokoja road around 1.45 pm.
The attack took the team unawares. Reports say the men appeared from 'nowhere' and just opened fire. Five of their key players were injured. Gambo Mohammed received gunshot wounds to the shoulder. Reuben Ogbonna, Eneji Otekpa, Adamu Murtala and Ubong Ekpai were equally wounded. Fortunately, there was no record of death. The Nigerian Premier League champions, coming on the heels of a champions league victory were in high spirits to resume defence of their title.
This brings to mind, an interview of an ex Super Eagles player who said many years ago that the only reason he wouldn't play in the local league is distance to games by road. He gave an instance of one playing for Enyimba having to travel to Nassarawa for a game. I guess he didn't put into consideration that Maidugri had a premier league club and so does Portharcourt. Therefore a journey by Dolphins of Portharcourt to play against El Kanemi Warriors of Maidugri is a journey across the length of Nigeria. Hazards of the Nigerian football league. But then, show must go on.
One hopes the players, staff and supporters of Kano Pillars recover soon enough from the trauma and that the injured players heal quickly. In terms of quality of game, Kano Pillars is one of the best around. With the arrival of seasoned campaigners, including former Rangers goal poacher, Obiozor Christian, the club is expected to play prettier.
Photo credit; goal.com
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what a sad story, still good to hear that no life was lost. Things are hard but it needn't come to this to survive, speedy recovery to the injured. Is air travel the solution then?
ReplyDeleteAir travel is not necessarily the solution. Yes it could help. But then I see it as one hazard of the profession here. The road is fair.
DeleteSpeedy recovery to the injured.
I love the way you avoid mainstream politics on your blog. Keep it up. I see the passion for football and the fire is up and burning for all to see. E kushe baba!
ReplyDeleteThanks 'anon'. Football is more than a game; a way of life.
DeleteGod help local league players.
ReplyDelete