Court Blames NPFL, Nasarawa United For Demise Of Chineme Martins

Five years after the tragic passing of former Nasarawa United player Chineme Martins during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) game in 2020, the National Industrial Court of Nigeria has blamed the NPFL, and the Nigeria Football Federation for the circumstances that led to his demise.

Martins, who was just 23 years old, collapsed during a match between Nasarawa United and Katsina United on March 8, 2020, at the Lafia Township Stadium.

Following this incident in October 2020, FIFPRO stepped in to assist Martins’ family in pursuing claims related to negligence.

The court found that Nasarawa United failed to uphold their duty of care towards Martins, leading to a ruling that mandates the club to compensate his family, although the specific amount awarded was not disclosed, according to the Punch.

Furthermore, the ruling highlighted the responsibilities of the league, the NFF, and the match commissioner, Christian Mbah, indicating that they also neglected their duty to ensure compliance with essential regulations regarding player safety.

According to FIFPRO, the court criticized the decision to allow Martins to compete without undergoing thorough medical evaluations, including an echocardiogram, which had not been performed at the start of any of his three seasons with the club.

Additionally, the lack of adequate medical facilities at Lafia Township Stadium was said to be a concern.