8th August, 2012
Heavy sporadic gunshots by unknown gunmen around Okene and Lokoja in Kogi State have halted Heartland’s journey to Kaduna for the rescheduled Matchday 29 tie against Kaduna United today.
The encounter was earlier shifted as it was among the rescheduled matches by the league board.
An official of Heartland, Cajetan Nkwopara, told Supersport.com that they ran into the commotion a few kilometres from Okene and were forced to make a frantic detour back to Auchi, Edo state.
“We were almost entering Okene when we saw panic-stricken crowd running helter skelter and buses making frantic turns while others were driving in the opposite direction.
“Initially, nobody could confirm what the problem was and the exact boiling point.
“Later we were able to scoop that there were gunshots by unknown gunmen around Okene and Lokoja.
“We were told that no vehicular movements were possible as the unknown gunmen blocked the highway.
“After waiting severally with no certainty of continuing on the journey, we called the NPL, informing them of our plight.
“Thereafter, we made inquiry at the nearest police station and we were directed to Auchi Divisional Police Station where we made formal complaint.
“We are making efforts to head back to our base to wait for further direction by the NPL,” Nkwopara said in a shivering voice.
On Monday night, unknown gunmen invaded the Deeper Life Bible Church, Otite in Okene, Kogi State killing 16 worshippers on the spot, leaving many injured.