Ghanaian Footballer Nearly Killed in Nigerian League as Angry Fan Reportedly Slashes His Throat

• A Ghanaian footballer has narrowly escaped death after a violent incident erupted during a Nigerian Premier League match
• Enraged fans reportedly attacked the player after his team, Barau FC, scored an equaliser against Katsina United
• The shocking event has left many in disbelief, who have taken to social media to express their horror and offer prayers for the player’s recovery
• YEN.com.gh spoke to a CAF-accredited Nigerian journalist who opposed calls for FIFA intervention, instead suggesting ways to curb violence in the Nigerian League

A violent incident marred the Nigerian Professional Football League game between Katsina United and Barau FC on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Muhammad Dikko Stadium.

The shocking scenes unfolded in the 69th minute when Barau’s Orji Kalu scored a crucial equaliser to make it 1–1, sparking fury among home fans.

Fans attack Ghanaian footballer in NPFL

Following the goal, enraged supporters stormed the pitch, turning the atmosphere into chaos.

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During the frenzy, Barau midfielder Abraham Nana Kwame, who is of Ghanaian descent, was viciously attacked, suffering a deep wound to his neck.

Barau FC quickly confirmed the alarming event on their official X account, stating,

“70' The match is temporarily halted following an attack on Barau FC player, Nana Abraham.”

According to Africa Soccer, security personnel struggled to regain control as tensions escalated, with angry fans accusing referees and opposition players of bias.

Medical teams responded immediately, treating the injured 22-year-old on the spot.

Nana was substituted by Hillary Ekawu, and despite the turmoil, the game resumed and ended in a 1–1 draw.

Below is the full-time scoreline:

Netizens react, call for harsher punishment

The frightening episode has since ignited outrage across social media platforms, where fans are demanding stronger security protocols and harsher penalties for violent spectators.

Some reactions captured by YEN.com.gh reveal the depth of concern:

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@ReestonJnr called for decisive action:

“Nigeria is not safe for football with this. FIFA and CAF, please react, we could have lost someone because of some bad fans. Action now!”

@AimThaMachine_ questioned the nature of the attack:

“Is this not an act of terrorism? What kind of madness is this? What is the name of the fan who attacked this footballer? Why is the name of the attacker not known?”

@JOHN9RO demanded strict consequences:

“Suspend the league, suspend the club and ban all fans.”

@MillerOsakpolor urged legal follow-up,

“Barau Football Club, don’t let anybody beg you people for settlements; this is a case of attempted murder. Follow this up legally.”

The attacked player, Abraham Nana Kwame, is fortunately alive.

In a video shared on X by journalist Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo, Nana Kwame appeared in good spirits while receiving treatment for his throat injury, offering a glimmer of hope amid the troubling scenes.

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Watch the video:

However, this violent outburst comes just weeks after a similar incident rocked a match in Kano, casting a shadow over the NPFL and raising urgent questions about player protection in Nigerian football.

Authorities are expected to launch a thorough investigation into the attack.

How to curb fan violence in Nigerian football

In an interview with YEN.com.gh, CAF-accredited Nigerian sports journalist Fisayo Dairo shared practical solutions to address the rising cases of fan violence in the country's top flight.

“Fan education and adequate punishment for defaulting clubs. On the pitch, all players, both local and foreign, are equal, so the measures must ensure safety for everyone involved,” he emphasised.

Dairo also pushed back against calls for FIFA and CAF to intervene, arguing that the responsibility lies within the local football structures.

“FIFA or CAF have no business in domestic football. Each nation knows its peculiarities and how best to handle its issues,” he added.

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Footballer threatened with gun in London

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that a Premier League footballer had a frightening experience when he was threatened with a gun while he was walking with a friend on a busy street in London.

The incident happened late at night and led to the arrest of a well-known football agent, who is now helping the police with their investigation.

Source: YEN.com.gh