Port Harcourt witnessed a road accident on Thursday when the Rivers United team bus crashed along the Obiri-Ikwerre Airport Road on the outskirts of the city. The squad headed to Awka in Anambra State for a President Federation Cup Round of 16 clash against Nasarawa United.
The incident occurred shortly after the team left its camp. Club officials confirmed that several players and officials sustained injuries. They described the injuries as minor and reported no deaths or life-threatening conditions.
Rivers United released a statement after the crash. The club said some players and officials sustained minor injuries. It added that all affected individuals received medical attention and remained in stable condition.
Eyewitnesses reported that the bus veered off the road. Rescue teams arrived quickly and transported the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment. Local authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the accident.
Club sources said the team received support from medical personnel at the scene. Officials moved the injured to facilities in Port Harcourt where doctors assessed and treated them. No player or official required surgery.
Transitioning to the match schedule, the club did not immediately announce a postponement. However it focused first on the welfare of its personnel.
The accident disrupted Rivers United preparations for the important cup tie. The team aimed to advance in the competition but now dealt with this setback. Club management coordinated with the Nigeria Football Federation for any necessary updates.
Authorities continued to examine the bus and the road conditions as investigations progressed. Rivers United urged fans to pray for quick recovery of the affected players and officials. The club promised further updates as more information became available.
