RismadarVoice Reporters
January 25, 2026
Bayelsa United Football Club on Saturday narrowly escaped a potentially tragic road accident while travelling to Kano for their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday 22 encounter against Barau FC.
It was gathered that one of the tyres of the team’s vehicle reportedly went off while in motion along the Abuja road, triggering panic among players and officials on board.
The driver, however, managed to regain control of the vehicle, preventing a major crash.
No lives were lost in the incident, all players and officials were confirmed safe, with no serious injuries reported.
Reacting to the development, the management of Barau FC, popularly known as the Maliya Boys and hosts of Sunday’s fixture, expressed concern over the incident, wished Bayelsa United well.
“We pray for strength, safety, and protection for the team as they continue the season,” the club said in a statement.
The Kano-based side also extended their sympathy to Bayelsa United’s players, technical crew and management following the scare.
Fellow NPFL club, Wikki Tourists FC, also sent a message of support, thanking God that the incident did not result in casualties.
“We are deeply concerned by the incident, sincerely thank God that no life was lost,” the club said.
Bayelsa United, who are currently 13th on the NPFL table with 26 points, were travelling to Kano after recording an impressive 2–0 victory over Shooting Stars in Ozoro in matchday 21.
Their opponents, Barau FC, sit just below them in 14th position, with only one point separating both teams, setting the stage for a keenly contested encounter.
Kick-off for the match at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, is scheduled for 3:30pm on Sunday (today), with attention now turning to whether Bayelsa United can maintain their momentum after Saturday’s alarming travel ordeal.
