More players to face probe in NPFL betting scandal
The investigation initially focused on former Plateau United goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka, who was suspended after reportedly refusing to sign a contract with Shooting Stars Sports Club.
Nigeria.- The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced plans to widen its investigation into allegations of illegal betting in the league.
The move follows a series of incidents that have raised concerns about betting and match-fixing within the division, prompting the NPFL to take decisive action. Now, more players are set to be summoned for questioning as part of the deepening probe to protect the integrity of the competition.
The investigation initially focused on former Plateau United goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka, who was suspended after reportedly refusing to sign a contract with Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) that included a clause prohibiting betting and match-fixing activities.
Adeyinka appeared before an NPFL investigative panel in Abuja last Thursday, accompanied by his legal representative, and provided information that implicated other individuals.
His cooperation led the league to lift his suspension, with Davidson Owumi, NPFL Chief Operating Officer, stating: “The information received from the inquest, coupled with our investigative findings, has necessitated further inquiry into this matter, and all those mentioned to be involved one way or the other in unravelling this matter will be invited as the investigation continues.”
Adeyinka, now free to sign with any club, clarified his stance on the contract dispute. He said: “During the contract negotiation phase, I reviewed the agreement and noted a clause related to contract termination in the event of betting allegations.
“I requested clarification on the criteria used to determine such allegations, as some clubs may rely on rumours, speculation or public opinion. Following our discussion, the Sporting Director adjusted the contract to reflect that any judgment would be based on evidence.”
The NPFL’s decision to summon additional players stems from evidence, including WhatsApp exchanges in the league’s possession, that reportedly mention several of Adeyinka’s former Plateau United teammates. These players, who left the club following the scandal, are now expected to face the investigative panel. The league has not publicly named them but the development suggests a broader network of potential involvement in betting activities.
The probe follows a troubling precedent set by earlier incidents in the NPFL. Last season, Lobi Stars faced scrutiny over claims of match-fixing, made by the club’s media officer, Emmanuel Ujah.
During a radio interview on Today Sportslive with Today 95.1 FM in Port Harcourt, Ujah accused Lobi Stars players and officials of compromising games, alleging that some players wagered on their own matches and even informed associates to bet on specific outcomes.
He said: “They’ll ask people to bet that they’re scoring us two goals today so go and bet. Look at the pattern: goals coming in the 85th, 88th minute repeatedly. This is not normal. Something is going on.”
Ujah further claimed that the team had become a hub for betting syndicates and that former coach Daniel Amokachi was aware of the issue but failed to act decisively.
Following the investigation, Ujah was banned by the NPFL, and the club, which has not won a match since December 14, 2024, was relegated from the top flight after sitting at the bottom of the league table with 28 points from 38 games last season.
