NLO Summons Clubs Over Alleged Match-Fixing, Launches Wider Probe Into Playoff Irregularities

The Nationwide League One (NLO) Secretariat has summoned Cynosure FC, E-World FC, and Liberty Lions to Abuja on Tuesday over serious match-fixing allegations stemming from the final round of matches at the Calabar Centre of the 2025 NLO playoffs.

The move follows a formal protest by Cynosure FC, who accused Liberty Lions and E-World FC of collusion in a decisive group-stage fixture. Cynosure questioned why E-World FC fielded only seven players—a bare minimum allowed under FIFA rules—despite having played all previous matches with a full squad.

“FIFA allows a team to start with seven players only in extreme circumstances,” Cynosure FC noted in its petition. “No such conditions were declared, and this raises suspicion.”

Responding to the complaint, the NLO directed all three clubs to appear before league officials with evidence and explanations regarding the controversial fixture.

“Yes, we’ve been invited to Abuja on Tuesday concerning the incident at the Calabar Centre,” confirmed Prince Chidiebere Nweze, President of Cynosure FC.

The Calabar controversy is one of several troubling incidents casting a shadow over the 2025 NLO playoffs. On Friday, the league announced a discreet probe into another fixture, where Campos FC defeated A&A Kiviasennus 15–2 at Awka City Stadium.

Beyond match results, participating clubs have raised issues about poor organisation, lack of medical support, and inadequate security.

“We paid ₦600,000 in registration fees and were told a sponsor was involved,” said Isaac Mbika, Sporting Director of Giant Brillars FC. “Yet, we’re using our own match balls, there’s no police presence, and medical support is nonexistent unless clubs provide their own. It’s unacceptable.”

As investigations continue, stakeholders await the outcome of Tuesday’s hearing in Abuja, which could have major implications for the integrity of the NLO’s ongoing competition.