Get Guardian on GoogleThe Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has ordered the full investigation of a former Plateau United goalkeeper (name withheld), who is being accused of illegal betting that allegedly influenced a match.
The full investigation will involve the invitation of some players whose names were mentioned during an earlier inquest. However, the suspension of the goalkeeper from registering for any club for the season has been lifted pending the outcome of the escalated investigation.
An inquest to ascertain the veracity of the allegations was held last Thursday, during which the goalkeeper appeared with his legal representative at the NPFL office in Abuja.
“The NPFL has now written to commend the player for cooperating with the panel and offering further insights that have necessitated a wider investigation involving some others,” NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidosn Owumi, who led the inquest, said yesterday.
In a written communication to the player, the NPFL stated that the information obtained during the inquest and other independent findings have led to the expansion to a full investigation that will involve all those whose names featured in some WhatsApp exchanges that are in the possession of the league.
“It is only fair that your career is not jeopardised while the investigation hasn’t been concluded, hence 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,” the NPFL told the player.
The goalkeeper was invited to an investigative panel set up by the NPFL to determine his culpability or innocence in allegations of involvement in illegal betting.
The NPFL had received a report that the player declined to sign a contract form at Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), which had a clause forbidding participation in betting activities.
The player had his registration with any NPFL club suspended pending the conclusion of investigations.
