The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has lifted the suspension placed on goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka, allowing him to resume his professional career amidst ongoing investigations into betting allegations. This decision comes as a relief to Adeyinka, who faced a provisional ban following claims from his former club Plateau United alleging his involvement in betting activities during the 2024/2025 season.
The NPFL, through its Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, acknowledged Adeyinka’s full cooperation during the investigation and emphasized the league’s commitment to ensuring fair and transparent disciplinary procedures. “For the benefit of fair hearing and not to put your career in jeopardy, the suspension placed on your registration in the NPFL has been lifted. You are free to register with any club of your choice,” Owumi stated in a letter to Adeyinka.
Sunday Abe, President of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF), praised the NPFL for upholding due process and granting a fair hearing. “We are pleased the NPFL did not allow unproven allegations to truncate Adewale Adeyinka’s career and commend their willingness to engage with the players’ union,” Abe said. He further urged players to remain disciplined and cooperative with regulatory bodies while assuring them of the union’s support.
Adeyinka had previously contested the betting claims, stressing that any judgment should be based on concrete evidence rather than rumours. His suspension stalled a potential move to Shooting Stars Sports Club but with the ban now lifted, he is free to forge ahead with his career.
The NPFL confirmed that investigations into the betting matter will continue and more players may be invited for questioning, reiterating its dedication to preserving the integrity of Nigerian football through fair and just processes.
