Benue: Lobi Stars players beaten by thugs during training in Makurdi

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Panic spread among fans of Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi following a violent attack on players during a training session at the Government Model Secondary School Pitch in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

Reports circulating on social media allege that the club’s management orchestrated the attack, allegedly sending hoodlums to assault players and staff over claims of match-fixing—particularly in games involving Lobi Stars and Abia Warriors.

While some speculated that the attackers were cult members with an unknown motive, others believed they were enraged supporters frustrated by the team’s poor performance this season.

Speaking with residents, our correspondent gathered that the attack may have been fueled by aggrieved fans venting their frustration over the club’s disappointing run.

An eyewitness, identified only as Haruna, recounted arriving at the pitch just in time to witness the assailants beating the players and issuing threats, warning some to leave Makurdi immediately.

According to him, some players were assaulted and then locked inside the team bus with the windows shut for 30 minutes as punishment for their lackluster performances.

In response to the incident and accusations of the club’s involvement, Lobi Stars’ Media Director, Emmanuel Uja, issued a statement denying the allegations. He distanced the club’s management from any connection to the attack, dismissing claims that the assault was orchestrated by officials against their own players and staff.