Why Katsina United Chairman Sustained Injury - Wikki Tourists Management

Why Katsina United Chairman Sustained Injury - Wikki Tourists Management 

By Niyi Busari 

Wikki Tourists Football Club has issued an official statement explaining the circumstances surrounding the injury sustained by Katsina United Chairman, Surajo Malumfashi, during the chaotic Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 25 fixture between both sides in Bauchi, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The management in the press release admitted that the Chairman, Surajo Malumfashi didn't formally communicate his presence and sit on the bench reserved for the team officials.

The match, which was abandoned on Sunday following crowd unrest after Katsina United equalised to make it 3–3, was eventually completed on Monday morning. During the disruption, the centre referee was replaced by the reserve official, while Malumfashi reportedly sustained a head injury.

In a statement signed by the club’s management on Monday, Wikki Tourists said it became aware of the incident through a viral video showing the Katsina United chairman receiving medical attention at a hospital. The Bauchi-based club, however, stated that the exact circumstances leading to the injury were not within its knowledge.

While condemning all forms of violence, Wikki Tourists emphasised that it would not tolerate the maltreatment of any guest or official at its venue under any circumstances.

The club explained that match organisers were unaware of the presence of the Katsina United chairman at the stadium, noting that his name was neither recorded nor announced during the pre-match coordination meeting.

According to the statement, Match Commissioner Blessing David confirmed that Malumfashi was seated on the Katsina United reserve bench at the time of the incident—an area strictly designated for match officials and accredited team personnel. The club maintained that he was neither expected nor authorised to occupy that space.

Wikki Tourists further stated that attempts to clarify the situation with the Match Commissioner confirmed that the Katsina United chairman did not formally announce his presence at the venue, as required by matchday protocol.

Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and safety, Wikki Tourists noted that it has consistently prioritised the welfare of guests and officials. The club added that had Malumfashi’s presence been officially communicated and appropriate procedures followed, he would have received the same level of protection accorded to all recognised guests.

The NPFL fixture was eventually concluded on Monday morning, ending in a dramatic 4–4 draw.