The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has condemned the violence that overshadowed the FKF Premier League showdown between Shabana FC and Gor Mahia at Gusii Stadium on Sunday, May 4, confirming that at least 72 people were injured during the clashes.
What was billed as a highly anticipated match between two of the league’s most passionate fanbases turned into a scene of chaos, forcing a delayed kickoff and multiple medical emergencies. In a statement issued late Sunday, FKF expressed deep concern over the incidents and announced that disciplinary action would follow upon the conclusion of their investigation.
Tensions Boil Over Before Kickoff
The trouble reportedly began hours before the scheduled 2:00 PM kickoff, with Daily Nation reporting that tensions escalated over seating arrangements between fans. Shabana, the official home team, had been allocated 10 stands in the 12,000-seater stadium, while Gor Mahia fans were assigned only three. This sparked an uproar among K’Ogalo supporters, who reportedly pushed into Shabana’s designated areas, leading to violent confrontations.
The escalating tension forced a delay in kickoff by over 40 minutes, with players only taking to the pitch at 2:38 PM. Despite the late start, both teams tried to focus on the football, though the game was frequently disrupted by projectiles from the stands, especially after Gor Mahia took the lead.
SHABANA FC vs GOR MAHIA FC MATCH REPORT
Incident Summary:
Prior to kickoff, a violent altercation broke out between fans seated in Shade G9 (Shabana FC supporters) and those in Shade G10 (Gor Mahia FC supporters). The clash resulted in multiple injuries, prompting emergency… pic.twitter.com/ZVO7iGzIFq
— (@Aisha_CFC) May 4, 2025
Match Marred by Chaos and Delays
The match, which ended in a 1-0 win for Gor Mahia courtesy of a Sylvester Owino goal in the 79th minute, never truly found its rhythm. Instead of being remembered for its football, the match drew attention for its prolonged stoppages and unsafe scenes in the terraces.
Following the goal, tempers flared once again, with more objects hurled onto the pitch. Officials were forced to pause the game for a lengthy period, and it ultimately concluded after more than 100 minutes of action. Security forces were overwhelmed as they tried to contain the crowd unrest, and the atmosphere remained tense throughout the second half.
Injuries Confirmed as Federation Promises Action
In its statement, FKF confirmed receiving reports from Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, RAM Hospital, and Christamarianne Hospital, indicating that 72 individuals were treated for injuries related to the stadium violence. While most injuries were minor, the scale of the unrest raised serious concerns about matchday safety.
“We strongly condemn all forms of violence in our stadiums,” FKF said. “Football must remain a sport that brings people together—not one that puts lives at risk.”
The federation emphasized that it is working with security agencies and local authorities to piece together the full events of the day and determine accountability.
| EVENTS
Geoffrey was not spared… he got hit by a projectile. He is well though.
It’s all fine, we won amid all the chaos. #Sirkal pic.twitter.com/kDZrMNwv9G
— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) May 4, 2025
Fan Safety Under Scrutiny
This latest incident has raised questions about crowd control and fan safety in Kenyan football. The seating dispute, coupled with inadequate crowd segregation, highlighted glaring lapses in planning and stadium management. With more high-stakes FKF Premier League games ahead and the calendar intensifying, FKF is under pressure to restore public confidence in stadium security.
“The Federation is working closely with relevant authorities to establish the circumstances that led to the unrest. Decisive disciplinary measures will be taken upon conclusion of ongoing investigations,” FKF added.
— Football Kenya Federation (@Football_Kenya) May 4, 2025
Social Media Buzz and Misinformation
In the aftermath of the violence, several unverified reports began circulating on social media, including false claims of fatalities. FKF urged the public and media to avoid spreading misinformation.
“We urge members of the public and media to refrain from circulating unverified reports, particularly claims of fatalities,” the federation stated. “Only verified information should be shared to avoid unnecessary panic.”
Gor Mahia’s Narrow Win Overshadowed
The on-pitch action saw Gor Mahia maintain their FKF Premier League title chase with a hard-fought 1-0 victory, but the result was almost secondary to the drama in the stands. Sylvester Owino’s winning goal gave the league leaders another vital three points, but the incident-filled encounter has now become a focal point for all the wrong reasons.
Shabana, who were hoping for a turnaround in form at home, have now lost momentum in their campaign, while also potentially facing sanctions related to crowd control as the host team.
Gor Mahia Beat Shabana at the Gusii Stadium
Sylvester Owino’s All Important goal in the 1-0 Win #FootballKE pic.twitter.com/7xCxTnwkFu
— The Truthful Men (@Dollar__SM) May 4, 2025
As investigations continue, fans and stakeholders alike are demanding stricter enforcement of matchday protocols and better crowd management systems to prevent future tragedies. The FKF’s next steps will be closely watched, with many expecting fines, suspensions, and structural changes in how high-risk matches are organized
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