Handball Federation sympathizes with Benue Buffaloes following harrowing ordeal

 
By Mishael Emmanuel with additional information by Pius Ayinor
  
The President, Handball Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Jibril Saidu Ojih, on Monday expressed sympathy to the players, coaches, and management of Benue Buffaloes following a harrowing ordeal while returning from the recently conclude Ardova Premier League.
 
The Buffaloes who finished 9th in the League were abducted by armed men, robbed and left traumatised while travelling back from Lagos. The incident happened just after Otukpo, Benue State but they were later rescued through the intervention of troops of the Nigeria Army as confirmed by the Handball Federation.

In a statement made available to Sports Groove, Ojih condemned the traumatic experience, describing it as “a sad and heartbreaking ordeal that no athlete, coach, or official should ever be subjected to” while also thanking the Nigerian Army for their quick response.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Benue Buffaloes team. What they went through is unimaginable which no sport person should be subjected to. We thank God and the Nigeria Army for their safe rescue.

“Our hearts go out to the Benue State Sports Ministry. The board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria and the entire Nigeria handball family is with you in this trying moment. You are not alone.”

Jibril called for improved safety for travelling sports teams. Stressing that athlete welfare must be prioritised nationwide, while commending the Nigeria Army for its “prompt intervention,” noting that their swift response prevented what could have been an even worse situation.

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