By Ime Bassey
Secretary of the NFF Appeals’ Committee, Barrister Okey Obi has explained why the committee reached a decision to call for a police investigation on the match fixing scandal rocking the Nigerian Premier League.

Barrister Obi also debunked reports in the media that the committee has set aside the allegation levelled against Sunshine Stars, Dolphins FC, Stanley Eguma and Ere Dukubo, describing them as false.

“Ideally we don’t send out such documents but because of clarification, we had to. You and I know that match fixing or an attempt to fix a match is a criminal offence. It is not just a wrong doing in football but an outright criminal offence.

“That is why the committee is of the view that a thorough investigation should be made by the law enforcement agencies. We need to put a stop to match fixing in this country,” Obi said.

“The Appeals’ Committee is unable to uphold decision of the disciplinary committee as the record of proceedings, findings and the application of the rules do not tally and are inconclusive. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) should as a matter of urgency, national importance and international best practices, refer this matter to the law enforcement agencies for a full in-depth investigation to establish the level of culpability or otherwise of the appellants and other persons involved,” the statement read in part.

It continues: “the decision of fines, sanction as it relates to the appellants (Sunshine Stars, Dolphins FC Stanley Eguma and Ere Dukubo) are hereby set aside without prejudice to the findings of the investigation by the law enforcement agencies. An appeal against this decision shall be sent to the Court of Arbitration for Sports.”

Ten days was given to the parties involved to write the committee if not satisfied wit the decision after which it becomes binding and final.

Kaduna Utd happy with away wins in league

Media Officer of Kaduna United, Abdulrahman Tonga has stated that the team is on course for a top five finish this year.

Making this known to Inside Out Premier League from the teams’ camp in Kaduna, Tonga said  games in the league  have improved this season  as the number of away wins have increased, stressing that his team’s two straight defeat attest to it.

“If it’s about we losing two straight games at home, it should be seen as a welcome development in our football which we all must embrace. Teams must be able to win away matches without challenge from any quarters. We have 24 points and seat on the 6th spot on log.  It implies we are doing well,” Tonga stated.

On the team’s weekend tie against Kano Pillars in Kano, Tonga said, “We are traveling to Kano with the sole aim of coming back with at least a point as we can’t afford to lose all three points.”

Amapakabor plots ABS down fall in PHC

Assistant coach of  Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt, Imama Amapakabor has disclosed that the team will end ABS’ unbeaten run this weekend at the Sharks Stadium.

Amapakabor told Inside Out Premier League that his wards have found their rhythm following their 1-0 away triumph against Heartland of Owerri at the U. J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

He however saluted the form of the Saraki boys, stressing that it has helped teams in the league to improve.

“I believe we can end their unbeaten run this weekend  because our problems seem to be behind us now after the away win in Calabar against Heartland of Owerri. The taste of the pudding is in the eating, so let’s wait for Saturday and 90 minutes will tell us the full story.

“I respect them for their fine run of form, but that is not to say we won’t end it in Port Harcourt with entertaining football for that matter. It is good having their kind of form in the league as it helps others to lift their game above their limit,” Amapakabor said.