Trill Times News Sports Desk can report that Plateau United FC has raised serious concerns over what the club describes as “a disturbing pattern of intimidation and violent conduct” surrounding their NPFL Matchday 13 clash against Ikorodu City in Lagos.
Plateau United alleges that their officials were assaulted during halftime of Sunday’s match. According to the club’s statement, the incidents were “the culmination of hostile actions that began even before kickoff.”
According to the press release, Plateau United troubles began on Saturday during their mandatory pre-match training. Plateau United said, Ikorodu City Chairman Mr. Sanmi Doherty allegedly denied the team access to a full pitch, forcing them to train on half of the field. He added that the team had to wait until late evening to train, “without functional lighting,” despite expectations under the NPFL Framework.
United stated that attempts to seek intervention from the NPFL and the Lagos FA Secretary were unsuccessful, alleging that Mr. Doherty previously boasted of having influence over football authorities.
At halftime, matters escalated on matchday when, with the game still goalless at halftime, Team Manager of Plateau United, Mr. Bulus observed the Ikorodu City Chairman entering the referees’ dressing room accompanied by men Plateau United described as “intoxicated thugs.”
United goalkeeper’s Coach, Ayo Segun, who reportedly attempted to raise alarm over the development, was “physically assaulted,” according to the statement.
Plateau United further alleges that when Sporting Director Barr. Gideon Izang and Chief Security Officer, David Yakubu Itumu attempted to report the incident to the Match Commissioner, access was blocked by the Ikorodu City Chairman and the same group of men.
Our reporter gathered that four “visibly drunk individuals” then attacked the Sporting Director and CSO, with more joining shortly after. “Despite his attempts to disengage and reach the Match Commissioner for safety, Barr. Izang was assaulted again,” United alleged further.
Plateau United confirms it has video recordings documenting portions of the incident and plans to submit them to the NPFL and NFF.
Plateau United emphasized that the club views the situation as part of “a troubling pattern of intimidation” associated with Ikorodu City, calling for an independent, transparent investigation by football authorities.
Condemning the act in strong terms, Amb Miri Timnan Nyantau (M.T.N) said “Violence, intimidation, and obstruction of match officials have no place in professional football,” he insisted. “The integrity of the league and the safety of all personnel must be protected.”
Plateau United is urging the NPFL, NFF, and relevant security agencies to impose sanctions after verifying the allegations.
