Radio personality Shola Ayegbajeje has publicly apologised after making unfounded allegations of match-fixing against Nigeria Premier Football League side Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC). The apology followed significant backlash from fans, stakeholders, and the Ibadan-based club, which threatened legal action over the damaging remarks.
In a formal statement titled “My Sincerest Apology,” released on May 2, 2025, Ayegbajeje expressed deep regret for the comments made during one of his radio programmes. He clarified that the misinformation was not intended to malign the NPFL Board, Shooting Stars management, or the government and people of Oyo State.
“I deeply regret the misinformation sent to the teeming fans during one of my radio presentations,” he wrote. “It was not intentional against the NPFL Board, 3SC management, government, and good people of Oyo State.”
The presenter further acknowledged the proud legacy of Shooting Stars and their significance within Nigerian football, offering a heartfelt apology to all associated with the club, including fans and “every Ibadan Soccer Lord.”
While Ayegbajeje has officially retracted his comments, the NPFL and Shooting Stars have yet to issue any public statement in response.
Editorial
The Bet9ja promotion code for June 2025 is YOHAIG. Bet9japromotioncode.com.ng has more info about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria. Follow this link for more - https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. This Bet9ja promo code gives a Bet9ja welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. https://29sixservices.in/employer/bet9ja-promotion-code-2025/. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup and the Bet9ja bonus code to get started today on the Bet9ja website. Bet9ja offers a 170 per cent multiple boost bonus and a free bet for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To open a Bet9ja account and be a Bet9ja customer, you must go through the registration process here. Terms and conditions apply when you register with Bet9ja to get the bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reckless words have real consequences—especially in an ecosystem as emotionally charged and reputation-sensitive as Nigerian football. Shola Ayegbajeje’s public apology, though necessary, is a sobering reminder that media responsibility is not a luxury it’s a duty.
When a club like Shooting Stars, with decades of tradition and deep-rooted community support, is accused of something as grave as match-fixing without evidence, it’s more than a misstep—it’s a reputational bombshell. In today’s media landscape, where rumours travel faster than facts, broadcasters must be doubly cautious with their claims.
We commend Ayegbajeje for having the humility to retract and apologise. That’s not always easy in an industry driven by ego and hot takes. But apologies, while essential, don’t erase the impact of the original statement. Damage control is never as effective as due diligence.
For the broader media, this incident should serve as a turning point. Journalistic integrity, especially in sports, demands that we verify before we vilify. Shooting Stars deserve the same respect and procedural fairness as any club, and we expect the NPFL to reinforce these standards across all communication channels.
Let’s not forget: it only takes one irresponsible comment to undermine years of trust. And in a league still fighting for global credibility, trust is everything.
Did You Know?
- Shooting Stars SC is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most storied football clubs, founded in 1950 as the Pepsi-Cola FC.
- 3SC were the first Nigerian club to win a continental title, lifting the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1976.
- The club’s home ground, Lekan Salami Stadium, was renovated and reopened in 2021 with modern facilities.
- Match-fixing is a criminal offence under Nigerian law and can carry jail terms in addition to football sanctions.
- The NPFL has a disciplinary committee tasked with investigating and sanctioning any club or individual found guilty of match manipulation.
