Nigeria face FIFA sanctions and fine after fans' riot led to Kabungo’s death
FIFA sanctions may include fines, playing behind closed doors and other punishment the world governing body of football think will serve as deterrence against future occurrence
Nigeria is set to be banned and fined by the world football governing body FIFA after fans' riot at the MKO Abiola Stadium Abuja led to the death of doping officer Zambian physician Dr Joseph Kabungo.
He was the Zambia national football team doctor from 2003 to 2016.
The Black Stars of Ghana drew 1-1 with the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the Moshood Abiola Stadium to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Kabungo was reported to have lost consciousness after he was beaten and stepped on as fans tried to make their way out of the stadium due to a stampede.
In a post on Twitter by Osasu Obayiuwana, his death was confirmed after he was rushed to the hospital. His family, the Zambia FA and the government of Zambia have been duly informed.
A Ghanaian journalist, Collins Atta Poku, who claimed to have witnessed the ugly scene, wrote “They beat him, he fell and they threaded on him. He lost consciousness was rushed to an ambulance closer to the Ghana dressing room for CPR. The entire Ghanaian contingent watched on as resuscitation attempts were made with an oxygen mask. He was taken to hospital later and now this. Sad,”
Fracas ensued after the Super Eagles failed to qualify at home with the Black Stars booking passage to the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup via the away goals rule following a 1-1 stalemate with both sides having drew 0-0 in Kumasi.
Nigerian fans shockingly smashed up the stadium after the match.
Ugly scenes ensued after the final whistle as the Nigeria supporters proceeded to storm the pitch and smash up their own ground.
The home fans clashed with police and tore down dugouts as their fury was channelled into violent acts in the stadium.
Ghana fans were subsequently moved onto the pitch after a number of them were reportedly attacked in the stands.
And the visiting players were forced to run for cover after being pelted with bottles.
Nigeria had previously qualified for the 2010, 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
They were eliminated in the group stages at both the 2010 and 2018 competitions.
And in Brazil in 2014 they reached the last 16 before being eliminated by France.
FIFA sanctions may include fines, playing behind closed doors and other punishment the world governing body of football think will serve as deterrence against future occurrence.
