The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has denied reports that five football fans died during stampede at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium before Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Zambia.
Nigeria won 1-0 to become the first African country to qualify for Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup.
In its official reaction, NFF through its General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said, “There is absolutely no truth to the report that some fans died.”
“Naturally, considering the nature of the particular match, so many fans wanted to watch the match live, and there were some pushing and shoving at the gates.
“We are in contact with the Akwa Ibom State Government and we can confirm that nobody died.
“A few persons suffered injuries but they are in hospital and their progress is being monitored”.
Sanusi appealed to fans and stakeholders not to dampen the mood of celebration with fictitious reports.
“This is a good period for Nigerian Football. Only a few weeks ago, the Super Eagles also qualified for the African Nations Championship.
“There is so much to celebrate, and there is no reason for stories that emanate from the imagination of persons”, he added.
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