…Flight FC, Junior Mighty Jet FC under investigation as league suspends result over suspected match compromise
The Nationwide League One (NLO) has opened a formal investigation into alleged match manipulation following the controversial promotion playoff between Flight FC of Benue State and Junior Mighty Jet FC of Plateau State, a game that ended in an astonishing 8-3 scoreline at the Lafia Township Stadium on Monday.
In an official notice dated July 6, 2026, and signed by the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Olushola Ogunnowo, the NLO described the result as highly suspicious and immediately suspended the outcome of the match pending the conclusion of its investigation.
According to the league, a preliminary assessment of the fixture raised serious concerns because neither club had recorded such an unusually high-scoring match or defensive collapse throughout the current season, including during the round-robin stages of the competition.
The NLO stated that the pattern of goals scored and the general conduct of the encounter had created strong suspicions of possible match compromise and unsporting behaviour, actions it said threaten the integrity of Nigerian football and violate the league’s rules and regulations.
As part of the investigation, the technical crews and captains of both Flight FC and Junior Mighty Jet FC have been directed to appear before the NLO Integrity Unit and Disciplinary Committee on July 9, 2026.
The league also warned that if evidence of match manipulation, collusion or any form of compromise is established, those found guilty will face the maximum sanctions provided under the NLO Rule Book and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Statutes. Possible punishments include expulsion from the league and long-term bans for players and officials involved.
The latest development has revived memories of one of the darkest chapters in Nigerian football history.
In July 2013, Plateau United Feeders defeated Akurba FC 79-0 in a promotion playoff, while Police Machine FC overwhelmed Babayaro FC 67-0 in another fixture played simultaneously. The two matches produced a combined total of 146 goals, sparking widespread outrage both within Nigeria and internationally.
Investigations later confirmed that both games had been manipulated. The Nigeria Football Federation responded with one of the toughest disciplinary actions in its history, imposing life bans on all players, coaches and match officials involved, while the four clubs received 10-year suspensions from football activities.
Thirteen years later, the NLO appears determined to ensure history does not repeat itself. By swiftly suspending the result and launching a full investigation, the league has signalled its commitment to protecting the credibility of its promotion playoffs and preserving public confidence in Nigerian football.
The NLO reaffirmed that it remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in the game and vowed to take every necessary step to safeguard fair competition.