Plateau United’s goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, has had his Nigeria Premier Football League registration suspended while an investigation unfolds into allegations of insider betting. The NPFL’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, confirmed that a letter has been sent to both the player and the club, informing them of the suspension.
The provisional measure was taken after Adeyinka reportedly declined to sign for a new club when a clause allowing immediate termination for betting offences was included in the contract an action that heightened the league’s concerns.
Article 15.5, Section B of the NPFL’s rules explicitly prohibits betting, with breaches subject to disciplinary action under Section C. Adeyinka will be given a chance to defend himself as the investigation continues.
Editorial
We regard this suspension as a necessary step to uphold the NPFL’s credibility. Integrity is the bedrock of any sporting league once that foundation is shaken, the entire structure is at risk.
We believe that imposing such a suspension, even before a conclusion is reached, serves as a deterrent—not only to the individual concerned but to others who might consider compromising the game’s fairness. This pre-emptive stance demonstrates a commitment to transparency and adherence to regulations.
We see this case as a litmus test for how the league enforces its disciplinary framework. Allowing players to contest allegations is vital, yet taking decisive action amidst suspicion is equally important. Balancing both reinforces trust among stakeholders.
We anticipate that as the investigation progresses, this firm but fair approach will vindicate the NPFL’s position and bolster its standing. Integrity in football should never be negotiable—it must always define our ethos.
Did You Know?
- Plateau United FC was originally founded in 1975 as JIB Strikers FC and later adopted their current name.
- The club clinched its first Nigerian Cup in 1999, defeating Iwuanyanwu Nationale with a goal from Donatus Iloka.
- In 2013, Plateau United’s feeder team was banned for 10 years following a controversial 79–0 win amid match-fixing allegations.
- Before transferring to Plateau United, Adewale Adeyinka served as goalkeeper for Kwara United, joining Jos before the start of the 2024–25 season.
- A similar betting scandal recently embroiled another Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye who is serving a two-month ban in Italy over suspicions of insider betting during a Serie A match.
