Share

Soccer fan shot by police

Lagos - A high-profile Nigeria league match between champions Kano Pillars and Heartland was abandoned on Wednesday after police shot a fan at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, northern Nigeria.

"The match was called off after Heartland refused to continue the game after a fan was shot in the foot by police inside the stadium and the fans protested," Pillars media officer Idris Malikawa disclosed.

"The fan was said to have done something illegal - he has been rushed to hospital."

The match was goalless after half an hour before this incident.

"Pillars fans would have to be commended for the way and manner they comported themselves during the problem," said Malikawa.

"The situation was brought to normal but Heartland refused to continue for fear of their safety despite assurances from the match officials."

However, Heartland media officer Cajetan Nwokpara gave a different account, saying some home fans invaded the pitch.

"Our match was inconclusive because some home fans invaded the pitch with knives, cutting the net and trying to remove the goal post after they had done so with the corner flags," he said.

"I don't really know what caused this. We were escorted to our hotel by the security and everybody in our team is okay."

Interestingly the same fixture last season also ended in controversy after Heartland claimed they were manhandled by their home fans after they managed a 1-1 draw in Kano.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE