Leigh Leopards have released a statement following the recent social media allegations made against centre Tesi Niu.
A message appeared on Niu’s own Instagram account from a person purporting to his partner last week, accusing the Leigh centre of abuse with images also being posted.
The Instagram account was deleted a short time after, and Leigh have now put out a statement that includes words from owner Derek Beaumont, who provides an account of the situation and outlines that both the player and his partner are being supported.
The statement read: “The club is aware of social media activity of concern from one of its player’s account, that of Tesi Niu.
“Club owner Derek Beaumont said: “The club can confirm that the player’s account was accessed externally and without his knowledge or consent and deleted a short period thereafter.
““We were instantly aware of this as it happened. As a club we have policies and procedures and employ a Player Welfare Manager who is a qualified counsellor.
““Our first port of call in these circumstances is to ensure the welfare of our player and any external party that may be involved. This was immediately initiated.
““Having since personally spoken with Tesi and Kiana individually and at length and then our Player Welfare Manager and Head Coach, I am completely satisfied that they are both being fully supported.
““I can also confirm that there is no official complaint to the club regarding the player nor to any relevant authorities. To that end the club will make no further statements about the matter and would welcome supporters’ trust in the clubs’ processes and findings.””
Niu is approaching his second season as a Leigh player, having made the move from the NRL to join the Leopards ahead of the 2025 campaign. He scored 12 tries in 30 appearances for club last season.
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