The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced that more players will be summoned for questioning as part of its ongoing investigation into betting and match-fixing allegations in the domestic league.

Former Plateau United goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, was suspended last week and appeared before the NPFL panel after reportedly refusing to sign a betting and match-fixing clause in a contract offered by Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC). His suspension has since been lifted.

It was learnt that Adeyinka’s case stemmed from a petition submitted by his former club, Plateau United, which prompted the league body to invite him.

In a letter signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league confirmed that further inquiries would continue and more players would be invited.

“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,” the letter stated.

Owumi, however, clarified that Adeyinka’s suspension was lifted in the interest of fair hearing.

“For the benefit of fair hearing and not to jeopardise your career, the suspension placed on your registration in the NPFL has been lifted. You are free to register for any club of your choice. We thank you for your prompt response and cooperation,” he said.

Adeyinka, who has continued to maintain his innocence, explained that during his contract talks with 3SC, he raised concerns about a termination clause tied to betting allegations.

“I requested clarification on the criteria to determine such allegations, as some clubs may rely on rumours or speculation. After discussions, the Sporting Director agreed to amend the clause so that judgments would be based on evidence,” the goalkeeper wrote in a Facebook post.

He further recalled that his previous contract termination at Plateau United was linked to a match against Sunshine Stars FC, even though he was only on the bench and did not feature in the game.

Meanwhile, The PUNCH reports that some of Adeyinka’s former Plateau United teammates, who also left the club after the scandal, are among the players expected to face the NPFL panel.

Last season, the NPFL investigated similar match-fixing allegations against Lobi Stars, following claims by the club’s media officer Emmanuel Ujah. Ujah was later banned after the probe.

NPFL to Question More Players Over Betting, Match-Fixing Allegations

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