SuperSport.com can report that one of the fans that allegedly attacked the match officials after the Heartland versus Enyimba game in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) on Sunday has been arrested.
The arrested fan identified simply as Ifeanyi, whose surname could not be ascertained, was arrested by the policemen on duty at the venue, Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu after the match.
Acting Executive Secretary of the NPL, Tunji Babalola confirmed the arrest but could not give further details on the development.
"It is true that a fan of Heartland was arrested yesterday (on Sunday) but I don't have the details now until the match commissioner submits his report," Babalola told SuperSport.com.
The match commissioner, Ben Agarry also confirmed the arrest and referred our correspondent to the Enugu State FA, which played host to the southeast derby between Heartland and Enyimba.
"The Enugu State FA will be in a better position to give information on the matter, as I'm aware of the arrest," Agarry said.
Secretary of the Enugu State FA, Ugwu Francis disclosed to SuperSport.com that the fan has been charged for breach of public peace and will be paraded at the Enugu High Court.
He further revealed that the court case will come up on March 27 as the accused awaits trial.
"Yes a fan of Heartland was arrested and has been charged to court. The fan is one Ifeanyi as I can't recall his surname now and he's now awaiting trial at the Enugu High Court, which will come up on March 27.
"Enugu has been a peaceful venue in the league. Rangers lost to Kano Pillars here last season and this season drew with Heartland and even Warri Wolves and nobody was attacked. So we have a name to protect," said Francis.
Crowd violence broke out after the Heartland versus Enyimba game on Sunday after the former lost 2-3 to their rivals.
Fans of Heartland allegedly attacked the centre referee, Gabriel Adigwe after the match before the timely intervention of policemen attached to the stadium saved the official from the irate fans.
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