Oto John Survives Fans Violence in Libya

Oto John suffered a minor injury as a result of violent crowd disturbances during the Libyan Premier League Championship match between Al-Ittihad Club (Tripoli) and Asswehly (Misrata) on Thursday night.

The match, held at Tarhuna Stadium on May 14, 2026, was called off due to extreme fans violence, gun shots and riots. Another Nigerian football Orok Gabriel was in action for Asswehly in the game.

Tensions flared in the 87th minute when Al-Ittihad protested a denied penalty appeal while the visitors were ahead 1-0, thanks to a penalty converted by Ayoub Ayad in the 55th minute.

Although the game was supposed to be a closed-door event, some Al-Ittihad fans reportedly observed from a nearby eight-storey building before coming down and storming the pitch, attacking the visiting players, officials, and security personnel.

A security officer reportedly lost his life, several players and officials were injured amid the turmoil.

Hajji Gafar Liameed, the Founder of 36 Lion Football Club, confirmed after speaking with Oto John around 8 am on May 15, 2026, that the forward is stable and optimistic about returning to training soon.

“I spoke with Oto John a couple of minutes ago. Thank God, he is stable and optimistic about returning to training soon. But what happened in Libya yesterday is unacceptable,” Hajji Gafar addressed the media on Friday morning.

“Acts of hooliganism and brutality must be entirely eradicated from football. Players go out to play, not to risk their lives. We demand stronger protection for all players, especially our Nigerians abroad.”