The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), the umbrella body of football players in Nigeria led by Tijani Babangida, MON has frowned at the reports of the acts of hooliganism exhibited by some irresponsible, supposed fans of Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi, during a training session, where the players were harassed and locked in their bus for over half an hour.
In its press statement signed by PFAN General Secretary, Edema Godwin Fuludu, it noted is that fighting hooliganism at the stadium is not holistic enough and must go beyond the match venues.
Players are workers and must be treated as workers with fundamental human rights, who should and must be treated with dignity and respect.
“We believe that the Lobi Stars FC management, as well as, the players know the hooligans involved and should be disclosed to the Nigeria Premier League Board and the Nigeria Football Federation, for proper investigation and those found guilty be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others of their ilk.
“The Nigeria Premier League Board is doing well in curbing hooliganism at the stadia across the country, as well as administering appropriate sanctions, but must not allow this inappropriate behaviour go unpunished.”
“While Lobi Stars FC management is denying knowledge of active participation in instigating the hooligans via their official release as alleged in some quarters, they must also be investigated to put the records straight.
“We cannot afford to bring our football that we are all trying to develop to meet international standards to be brought to disrepute. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led by Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, must urge the Hon.Gbenga Elegbeleye and the Nigeria Premier League Board, to act decisively without an iota of hesitation. A stitch in time saves nine,” PFAN stated.
