The Head Coach of Barau FC, Eugene Agbabe, verbally abused and attempted to assault a journalist with Freedom Radio Kano and a member of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, Aminu Halilu Tudun Wada.
The incident occurred after the journalist questioned the coach about his tactical decisions and player selection, suggesting that the team should have scored more goals instead of managing only a single goal victory.
In response, Coach Eugene Agbabe became angry and told the journalist that he knew nothing about football and had no right to question him. He further insulted him and claimed he had never liked him.
In an effort to calm the situation, Aminu Halilu Tudun Wada explained that his question was purely professional and urged the coach to remain calm. However, the coach became more aggressive and attempted to physically attack the journalist. Other journalists and officials present at the post-match interview intervened and restrained the coach, forcing the journalist to leave the venue for his own safety.
Aminu Halilu Tudun Wada has since expressed his dissatisfaction and formally reported the incident to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), describing it as the second time he has been verbally abused by the same coach. The first incident occurred earlier in the season after Barau FC defeated Ikorodu City in Matchday 24.
As of the time of this report, Barau FC has not issued any official statement regarding the incident. This development violates the rules governing post-match interviews as stipulated by the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), which makes it mandatory for all clubs to conduct media interactions respectfully and without intimidation of journalists.
Meanwhile, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) is expected to announce the action it will take in response to the incident.
