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In the wake of Lobi Stars media officer, Emmanuel Ujah, accusing their players of match-fixing scandals during a radio interview, a correspondent from OwnGoalNigeria.com spoke to a veteran Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) player to uncover the reality of these claims.
Though his identity is protected for confidentiality, he has played in the league for seven seasons, featuring for some of the top clubs and a team relegated a few seasons ago. In an exclusive interview with Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman from the publication, he provided a candid account of match-fixing and betting practices within the NPFL.
Betting Among NPFL Players: An Open Secret
When asked about players in the league betting on games, even ones they play in, he did not mince words:
“It’s a regular and normal practice. In all my years in the league, no one has ever told us that betting is illegal. I remember when my friend at Enyimba told me their former chairman threatened to sack and arrest any player caught betting, I was shocked.”
Inside the Match-Fixing Deals
Pressed on whether he had ever been approached to fix a game or even participated, the veteran player admitted to both.
“While I was at a club that was definitely going to be relegated, we had a match against a top team that everyone expected to beat us. The odds were stacked against us. A few of us starters were approached by a club staff member with an offer from a foreign company.”
He detailed how the deal worked:
“It was straightforward. We were just told to do our best, as the referees had already been sorted. We each received around ₦2 million. On top of that, we cleverly placed bets on the game ourselves and made extra money. I’ve had similar offers and agreed to them three other times.”
No Regrets Or Guilt For Fixing Matches
Though active football players are not allowed to bet, the 32-year-old showed no remorse.
“Like I said, it’s common practice, so there’s nothing to regret. We go months without salaries or sometimes get only half. These betting deals help us survive, and the foreign guys who approach us pay more than what we earn in three months.”
His final words painted a grim picture of corruption running deep in the NPFL:
“If you investigate, you’ll see that match-fixing isn’t just about players. Referees, coaches, administrators, and even backroom staff are all involved.”
The allegations raise serious concerns about the integrity of the NPFL and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight. With accusations this damning, the question remains: Will the league take action, or will match-fixing continue to be an “open” secret?
Source: OwnGoalNigeria.com
