Otukpo Massacre: Lobi Stars, Abia Warriors NPFL clash postponed

The Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, match between Lobi Stars and Abia Warriors slated to hold today, Saturday 21st October 2023, at the Lafia township stadium has been postponed.

The postponement of the match which was slated to kick off at 4pm in Lafia town is said to be in honour those who lost their lives in Otukpo, Benue State during the deadly attacks on four banks yesterday afternoon by armed robbers in the area.

FLYING EZE reports that armed robbers invaded several banks in Otukpo at about 3 pm on Friday, shooting sporadically.

Dominic Iorfa, Vice Chairman and CEO of Lobi Stars FC, announced the postponement on Saturday.

Iorfa, in a statement made available to FLYING EZE said the postponement is to sympathize with the immediate families of those who were killed in the deadly attack.

The statement read: “We regret to inform you that, Lobi Stars NPFL matchday 4 tie against Abia Warriors has been postponed.

“The reason for the postponement is to sympathize with the immediate families who lost their loved ones in a deadly robbery attack on four banks in Otukpo, Benue State, yesterday.

“Otukpo, venue of the deadly incident is the Local Government of the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Sam Ode, who is also the Chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club.

“Following this ugly incident, the Management of Lobi Stars approached the league authorities and requested for a shift in date so as to mourn with the bereaved.

“Consequently, the league authorities have approved their request and shifted Lobi Stars’ encounter against visiting Abia Warriors to Sunday, 22nd October 2023 at the same venue in Lafia, Nasarawa State. Time remains 4pm.

“May God grant those who lost their lives during the incident eternal rest and console their families.”