By Francis Nansak
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nasarawa State Chapter, have vehemently condemned the recent hooliganism experienced in the Nigerian football space, particularly the unwarranted attacked on Plateau United players by some Nasarawa United fans.
The behavior which resulted to the upright banishment of Nasarawa United players to play their home matches at Pantiamin Stadium in Gombe State and a fine of six million Naira imposed by the League Management Company.
This was contained in a statement signed by Comrade Smah George, Chairman of SWAN Nasarawa State Chapter,who described the attack as “uncalled for and needless, especially given that Nasarawa United had already earned the three points needed to improve their league standing.
The Association calls on the Nasarawa State Football Association to take more stringent measures against supporters who do not add value to the game advocating reorientation of fan clubs to prevent such incidents in the future.
According to the statement, “The actions of the home supporters have denied fans the joy of watching Nasarawa United play at home and have incurred additional costs for the state, including travel expenses to Gombe for the remaining season. Moreover, it poses a risk to the safety of players, officials, and fans traveling to away matches urging all well-meaning citizens of Nasarawa State to condemn such behavior” Smah added.
Meanwhile the Association has expressed gratitude to Governor Abdullahi Sule for his motivational gesture of 2.5 million Naira to Nasarawa United after their 3-2 win over Plateau United.
The association also appreciated the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Kwanta Yakubu, for their continued support to the team appealing for similar motivation and physical presence be extended to the female team, Nasarawa Amazons.
The Chairman of SWAN, Nasarawa State called on members to use their platforms to sensitize the public, especially fans and supporters, on the rules of the game and the importance of maintaining a civilized and respectful atmosphere. He added that Football has evolved into a scientific and civilized sport, and any form of hooliganism or hate speech must be condemned.
