24 January 2026/SUNTV Global Channel/News
There was panic on the Abuja–Kano highway on Friday after the team bus conveying players and officials of Bayelsa United was involved in a frightening road incident while travelling for a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 22 fixture.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that the bus was en route to Kano State for Bayelsa United’s league clash against Barau FC when one of its tyres reportedly detached while the vehicle was in motion, triggering moments of fear among those on board.
Eyewitnesses said the driver acted swiftly and skillfully to regain control of the bus, preventing what could have resulted in a major tragedy. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident.
All players, coaches, and officials travelling with the Bayelsa United contingent were confirmed safe, with no serious injuries recorded.
As of the time of filing this report, club officials are yet to announce alternative travel arrangements or clarify whether the incident will affect the team’s preparations for the crucial league encounter.
The incident has once again raised concerns over road travel safety for sports teams in Nigeria, especially in light of a tragic accident reported by SaharaReporters in June 2025, when a Kano State contingent bus crashed while returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
That accident claimed the lives of 22 persons, including athletes, coaches, officials, medical personnel, and a journalist, after the bus veered off the road and overturned near Dakatsalle, about 40 kilometres from Kano. Nine others sustained injuries, while one passenger escaped unharmed.
Reacting to the tragedy at the time, Chairman of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, described the incident as “a very sad day for Nigerian sports,” adding that the nation was heartbroken by the loss.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments surrounding Bayelsa United’s travel situation and provide updates as more details emerge.
