A serious road traffic collision involving the Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC team bus happened on Monday morning.
The incident took place on the Ogbomoso-Ilorin Expressway in Oyo State as the team were travelling back to Ilorin, Kwara State, after their Nigeria National League (NNL) match against Sporting Lagos in Lagos State.
Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, but a number of players and staff members suffered significant injuries, according to a club official.
The accident has raised concerns about the safety of Nigerian football teams’ travel arrangements on the country’s roads.
A source close to the team suggests that the ABS FC bus lost control while navigating a part of the Ogbomoso-Ilorin Expressway, leading to the serious crash. Quick action from emergency services and passing motorists ensured that those injured were rescued promptly, preventing any loss of life.
The club, owned by former Senate President and ex-Governor of Kwara State, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has not yet released an official statement on the extent of the injuries sustained by players and staff. However, sources indicate that immediate medical assistance was given to those in need as the team made its way back to Ilorin.
This incident is the latest in a series of similar events that highlight the risks faced by football teams travelling within Nigeria. Several clubs have been involved in similar accidents in recent years.
For example, in June 2024, the Doma United team bus was involved in a crash on the Makurdi-Lafia Expressway in Benue State. The bus reportedly lost control and overturned several times. Again, no lives were lost, but several players were injured.
The tragic loss of Ifeanyi George, a player for Enugu Rangers, in a previous accident remains a stark reminder of the risks involved. That crash also left two of his teammates with critical injuries.
These incidents highlight the urgent need for better safety measures for Nigerian football clubs, including improvements to road infrastructure, well-maintained team buses, and strong emergency response systems.
