NPFL to Question More Players in Betting Probe After Adeyinka’s Hearing

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has confirmed that more players will be summoned for questioning as part of its ongoing investigation into betting and match-fixing allegations in the country’s top division, Sport360NG reports.

Former Plateau United goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, was invited to face the league’s disciplinary panel last Thursday after he was accused of refusing to sign a betting and match-fixing clause in a proposed contract with Shooting Stars. The complaint that triggered his invitation was reportedly filed by his former club, Plateau United.

Although Adeyinka was initially suspended, the NPFL has now lifted the sanction. In a letter signed by the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, the body stated that fresh evidence gathered during its inquiries would require further questioning of others mentioned in the case.

“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 will be invited as the investigation continues,” Owumi said.

On Adeyinka’s suspension, Owumi added: “For the sake of fair hearing and to avoid jeopardising your career, the suspension on your NPFL registration has been lifted. You are now free to sign for any club of your choice. We appreciate your cooperation and prompt response.”

Adeyinka, who has consistently denied wrongdoing, shared his side of the story in a Facebook post. He explained that during contract talks with Shooting Stars, he raised concerns about a clause that allowed termination of his deal on the basis of betting allegations.

“I only asked that any judgment on such matters be based on verifiable evidence rather than rumours or public opinion,” he said. “After discussions, the clause was amended, and I accepted the new terms pending approval from my agency. My previous contract termination at Plateau United was linked to a match I didn’t even play in, which is why I sought clarity this time.”

It is understood that some of Adeyinka’s former teammates at Plateau United, who left the club in the wake of the controversy, are also expected to appear before the NPFL panel.

This is not the first time the league has dealt with betting-related scandals. Last season, Lobi Stars were investigated after their media officer, Emmanuel Ujah, alleged that players were involved in match-fixing during a poor run of results. Ujah was later banned following the probe.