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NLO Sanctions Cynosure FC Over Unsubstantiated Allegations : A Necessary Action Against False Claims


By Muzammil Dalha Yola

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has revealed the reasons behind its sanctions against Cynosure FC of Ebonyi State. The decision followed a disciplinary review into allegations of match-fixing leveled against Liberty Lions FC in their May 5, 2025, fixture against E-World United FC.

Investigation Findings

Cynosure FC had petitioned the NLO Secretariat, suspecting match manipulation due to Liberty Lions FC starting the game with seven players. However, the NLO investigation concluded that the claims were unsubstantiated. According to the referees’ official report, Liberty Lions FC began the match with seven players, with others joining midway through the first half. Liberty Lions FC attributed the delayed arrival of some players to a sudden change in match timing.The rescheduling of the match from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. prevented full squad communication in time. The Calabar Centre Manager had requested that both decisive fixtures Liberty Lions Vs E-World United and Cynosure FC Vs May & Frank FC be played simultaneously at 7:00 a.m., a change approved by the NLO Secretariat to preserve competitive integrity.


Sanctions Imposed

The NLO disciplinary committee ruled that Cynosure FC's actions brought the game into disrepute. The sanctions include:

- The match result stands

- N500,000 fine for Cynosure FC

- Six-month suspension for the club's chairman from NLO activities

- One-year suspension from football activities for Cynosure FC

NLO's Stance

NLO Chief Operating Officer Olusola Ogunnowo emphasized the league's commitment to fair play and integrity. Cynosure FC has appealed the decision to the NFF Disciplinary Committee.

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