Members of the Bayelsa United football team narrowly escaped a potentially deadly accident yesterday when one of the tyres of their team bus came off while the vehicle was in motion along the Abuja–Kano highway.
The team was en route to Kano State ahead of their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 22 fixture against Barau FC.
Eyewitnesses said the sudden tyre failure caused a brief moment of panic among players, coaching staff, and officials on board. However, quick reflexes by the bus driver helped regain control of the vehicle, preventing what could have been a major tragedy.
“All members of the team are safe, and thankfully, no serious injuries were reported,” a source close to the team told PLATFORM TIMES.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the incident will affect the team’s travel plans or match preparations.
The scare has revived memories of a tragic road accident in June 2025, when a Kano State team bus returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, overturned, killing 22 people, including athletes, coaches, medical staff, and a journalist.
Nine others were injured, and one person escaped unhurt.
The accident, which occurred near Dakatsalle town, about 40km from Kano, was described by the then-chairman of the Nigeria Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, as “a very sad day for Nigerian sports.”
The Bayelsa United incident has reignited calls for stricter road safety protocols for sports teams traveling long distances across the country.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
