Lobi Stars’ Onyekachi Okafor Laments Security Concerns After Team Attack

Lobi Stars forward Onyekachi Okafor has spoken out following the shocking attack on the club’s players and officials by unidentified thugs during a training session in Makurdi.

The incident occurred at the Government Model College playing ground, where the team was holding a routine session on Sunday. According to Okafor, the players were left vulnerable as there was no security presence to protect them.

“I was also beaten by the thugs; there was no safety for the players,” Okafor told TalkTalk Nigeria.

The forward also highlighted an unsettling detail, claiming that while players were assaulted, club management members present at the scene remained untouched.

“Members of the management were on ground, but nobody touched them. The incident took place at our playing ground.”

Club Denies Involvement as Fans React

Following the attack, Lobi Stars’ management has denied any involvement, debunking claims that they orchestrated the assault on players and officials. However, the timing of this incident has raised questions, given that the club is currently struggling at the bottom of the NPFL table.

Some fans speculate that the frustration over the team’s poor performances could have triggered the attack, but others argue that violence has no place in football, regardless of a team’s struggles.

A Dark Reflection of Nigerian Football’s Security Challenges?

This incident once again brings to light the growing concerns about player safety in Nigerian football. The lack of adequate security at training grounds and stadiums poses a serious threat to both players and officials, and incidents like this could deter professionals from giving their best on the pitch.

For a club battling relegation, Lobi Stars need unity, not violence. If these attacks persist, it could further demoralize the team and worsen their already precarious situation in the league.

Should the Lobi Stars management take more responsibility for player security, or does this reflect a larger issue in Nigerian football?