A Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter between Katsina United and Barau FC was suspended on Saturday after Barau player Nana Abraham was attacked by angry home supporters.

The clash took a violent turn shortly after Barau’s Orji Kalu scored a 69th-minute equaliser to level the score at 1-1. Some Katsina United fans reportedly became enraged, targeting Abraham, who had been involved in the play leading to the goal. The player sustained a deep cut to his neck as he was chased and assaulted on the pitch, while teammates and match officials rushed to intervene.

Barau FC confirmed the attack on their official X account, stating that the match had been temporarily stopped.

“70’ The match is temporarily halted following an attack on Barau FC player, Nana Abraham. Katsina United | 1-1 | Barau FC,” the club posted.

Security forces were quickly deployed to control the situation and restore order inside the stadium. As of reporting, neither NPFL management nor Katsina United had released an official statement regarding the incident.

The attack has raised fresh concerns about fan violence in Nigerian football stadiums. Only last month, Kano Pillars faced a ₦9.5 million fine, a three-point deduction, and a stadium closure after fans invaded the pitch during a match against Shooting Stars of Ibadan.

Football authorities continue to urge stricter penalties and stronger security measures to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of players and officials during league games