Gambo Mohammed, Ubong Ekpai Shot By Armed Robbers On The Way To Owerri For Heartland Game

Nigeria champions Kano Pillars were attacked by armed robbers on Thursday afternoon in Abaji on their way to Owerri to honor a league match against Heartland.

Immediately after the incident, officials of Pillars contacted the League Management Company (LMC) to postpone their league opener with Heartland, scheduled for Saturday, March 7.

At least five players sustained serious injuries, with striker Ubong Ekpai having a bullet injury on his head, and Nigeria international Gambo Mohammed shot on his hand.

“They were going for a league match against Heartland. I was supposed to join them tomorrow. The players had to travel earlier so they can have at least 24 hours rest before the game,” said Media Officer of Kano Pillars, Idris Malikawa, to allnigeriasoccer.com.

“The robbery incident happened around Abuja/Lokoja road. There are about five players injured : Gambo, Ogbonaya, Eneji Otekpa, Murtala Adamu, and Moses Ekpai. They are presently receiving treatment at Federal Medical Center Lokoja.

“Because of the situation, we can not travel for the game with Heartland and we have told the LMC.

“We are after protecting the lives of our players, and waiting for feedback from the LMC.”

Kano Pillars have announced via their official Twitter account that the injured players are responding to treatment, and are hopeful they will be discharged soon.

Photo Credit : Private