Nigeria Premier Football League side Rivers United have confirmed that several players and officials sustained minor injuries after the club’s team bus was involved in a road traffic accident on Thursday while travelling to Awka, Anambra State, for a President Federation Cup Round of 16 fixture.
The incident occurred along the Obiri-Ikwerre Airport Road on the outskirts of Port Harcourt shortly after the team departed for their scheduled cup clash against Nasarawa United.
According to a statement released by the club, the bus veered off the road and crashed into nearby bushes, suffering visible damage to its front section. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries.
Club Confirms Players Are Stable
Rivers United Media Officer Charles Mayuku confirmed that all affected players and officials are receiving medical attention and remain in stable condition.
In an official statement, the club reassured supporters and stakeholders that the situation was under control.
“Rivers United Football Club wishes to inform its supporters, stakeholders, and the general public that the team contingent was involved in a road traffic accident on Thursday while travelling to Awka, Anambra State, for the President Federation Cup Round of 16 fixture against Nasarawa United.
“We can confirm that some players and officials sustained minor injuries in the accident. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities or life-threatening cases. All affected persons are receiving medical attention and are in stable condition.”
Federation Cup Fixture in Doubt
The Pride of Rivers were scheduled to face Nasarawa United in the Round of 16 of the President Federation Cup at Awka City Stadium on Saturday.
The club secured their place in the last 16 after an entertaining 3-2 victory over Rangers International in the previous round.
It remains unclear whether the accident will affect the team’s travel plans or preparation for the fixture, with further updates expected from both Rivers United and the Nigeria Football Federation in the coming days.
Football Community Shows Support
Following news of the accident, messages of support poured in from across Nigerian football.
Rivals Rangers International were among the first clubs to express solidarity with Rivers United, stressing that competition on the pitch becomes secondary when player welfare is involved.
Fans, former players, and football administrators have also expressed relief that the incident did not result in serious injuries.
Renewed Focus on Team Travel Safety
The accident has once again raised concerns about travel arrangements for clubs competing in Nigerian domestic competitions.
Many NPFL teams continue to undertake long road journeys across the country for league and cup fixtures, prompting renewed calls for improved transportation and safety measures.
As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, Rivers United and their supporters will be grateful that what could have been a tragic incident ended without any loss of life.
The club will now focus on the recovery of those affected while awaiting further guidance regarding their Federation Cup campaign.
