The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is set to invite more players for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation into betting allegations in Nigeria’s top football division.

Recently, former Plateau United goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka was suspended and appeared before the NPFL panel after failing to sign a betting and match-fixing clause in a contract offered by Shooting Stars Football Club. His former club, Plateau United, lodged a complaint that led to his invitation to the panel.

Although Adeyinka’s suspension has been lifted, the NPFL announced that additional players will also be questioned. Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi stated in a letter, “The information received from the inquest, coupled with our investigative findings, has necessitated further inquiry into this matter. All those mentioned will be invited as the investigation continues.”

Owumi reassured Adeyinka that the suspension on his registration in the NPFL had been lifted, allowing him to register with any club of his choice. “We thank you for your prompt response and cooperation,” he added. Adewale Adeyinka has maintained his innocence throughout the process.

Adeyinka explained in a Facebook post that during contract negotiations with Shooting Stars, he noticed a clause regarding contract termination based on betting allegations. He sought clarification on how such allegations would be determined, emphasizing that judgments should be based on concrete evidence rather than rumors or speculation.

After discussions, the Sporting Director revised the contract to ensure any judgments would rely on evidence. Adeyinka accepted these revised terms but indicated he would seek approval from his agency before signing.

He also highlighted that his previous termination from Plateau United FC related to a match against Sunshine Stars FC, in which he was not even a part of the playing squad, but merely on the bench. This experience prompted him to clarify the criteria used for judgments in such matters.

Last season, the NPFL investigated match-fixing allegations involving Lobi Stars after the club’s media officer, Emmanuel Ujah, accused the players of fixing matches during a poor performance streak. Ujah was subsequently banned by the NPFL following the investigation.