06/07/2026
A CLEAR DAYLIGHT ROBBERY OF BIDA LIONS AT THE NLO PLAY-OFFS: ..A CALL FOR INVESTIGATION..WHY RETURN TO THE DARK AGES?
The integrity of the Nationwide League One (NLO) Play-Offs has come under serious scrutiny following the controversial outcome of the final group matches at the Lafia Centre in Nasarawa State.
Questions have continued to trail the astonishing 9–3 victory recorded by Mighty Jets Feeders over Flight FC of Gboko in the last group game, a result that handed the Plateau State side promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) on goal difference.
More disturbing, however, is the decision by the organisers not to play the final round of group matches simultaneously. In every credible football competition, the last group fixtures are scheduled to kick off at the same time to guarantee fairness, prevent manipulation, and preserve the integrity of the competition. Departing from this universally accepted standard raises legitimate concerns and casts a shadow over the credibility of the qualification process.
The circumstances surrounding the final day have left many football stakeholders questioning whether the principles of fair play were upheld. The outcome has been widely described as a setback for Nigerian football, with calls for the organisers to explain why such a fundamental competition rule was ignored.
To restore confidence in the league, there is an urgent need for a thorough investigation into the events at the Lafia Centre and a comprehensive review of the qualification process.
Nigerian football cannot afford a return to the dark ages, where avoidable controversies overshadow genuine sporting achievement. Protecting the credibility and integrity of the NLO must remain the foremost priority of all stakeholders.
This version removes all references to the former general manager while strengthening the argument around fairness, the need for simultaneous final group matches, and the call for an investigation.
