Gunmen abduct two Enyimba football stars

Nigeria Professional League side, Enyimba FC, have confirmed that abduction of two of their footballers, Dayo Ojo and Benjamin Iluyomade, on Sunday.

The NPFL management has suspended the league nationwide as Nigeria battles the pandemic which has infected at least 35 people, killing just one as of March 23.

Both players were in the company of a fellow NPFL footballer, Emmanuel James, who escaped the incident which happened as they "journeyed to Akure to observe" the compulsory break due to coronavirus.

The club's statement reads:

“Enyimba Football Club can announce that midfielder Ekundayo Ojo has been abducted by gunmen along the Benin-Owo expressway.

“Enyimba FC have since maintained close contact with Ojo's family, as efforts are already in place to ensure the player's release from his abductors.

“At this time, and considering the sensitivity of the incident, Enyimba Football Club wishes to call on members of the media to refrain from reports or speculation capable of jeopardising the players' safety.

“Ojo's family also wishes to appeal for privacy while enjoining the general public to pray for the safety and freedom of the player.”