17th January, 2011
The apathy of Nigerian football fans to the local league has again reared its ugly head during a Nigeria Premier League, NPL, match between Sunshine Football Club of Akure and Heartland FC of Owerri yesterday at the Bisi Onabanjo International Stadium, Ijebu Ode, southwest Nigeria.
The local league match, involving two top Nigerian clubs was watched yesterday by less than 500 fans. P.M. Sports observed that the ancient city of Ijebu Ode was calm as if nothing of importance was happening in the city.
Meanwhile, the crucial encounter ended in favour of Sunshine who defeated Heartland 2-1.
Ajani Ibrahim of Sunshine drew the first blood in the 6th minute of the first half when he converted a free kick taken by Itodo Cletus. The goal sent the supporters of Sunshine into wild jubilation.
But the cheering was cut short when Heartland netted in their equaliser in the 33th minute through Emmanuel Olowo, when Sunshine defenders allowed the player the luxury of taking a shot at goal.
The Ondo State team, however, got their winner in the added time of the first half through Mende Daniel.
— Taiwo Adelu, Who Was In Ijebu Ode
