The Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Alhaji Liameed Gafar—widely known as “The Lion King”—has responded to the match-fixing scandal that recently rocked the Nationwide League One (NLO) involving four Lagos-based teams.
The clubs—Bison FC, Franceex United, Seamoriow FC, and Act Sports Di’ Oyibo—were slammed with heavy sanctions by the NLO after their suspicious final-day scorelines raised red flags across the Nigerian grassroots football scene. Seamoriow FC thrashed Act Sports Di’ Oyibo FC 9-2, while Franceex United demolished BISON FC 9-0, results that directly paved the way for Okaka FA, who had previously occupied fourth position with 13 points, to leapfrog into first place and emerge as the Group Winner.
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In a chat with Awijare News, Chairman Gafar was asked a series of direct questions regarding the unfolding controversy:
- What are your thoughts on the suspicious scorelines?
- Did LSFA take any proactive measures in the days leading to the final fixtures?
- Do you find the NLO’s decision fair?
- What stance will the LSFA take on the four clubs involved?
- What message do you have for the six Lagos teams that qualified for the NNL playoffs?
In his characteristic calm and calculated manner, the Lagos FA Chairman held back on issuing a definitive verdict:
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“Good morning, my brother.
For now, I’m still carrying out my personal investigation on all these matters. It’s a very serious situation, especially when you consider that it affects the careers of over 100 young players.
I would prefer not to respond directly to any of these questions until I have concluded my findings.
Thanks a lot for your understanding.”
This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and highlights Chairman Gafar’s resolve to ensure that any steps taken by the Lagos FA will be both fair and fact-based. His insistence on due diligence before commenting publicly reflects his reputation as a steady and principled administrator who places the welfare of players and the integrity of the game above quick soundbites.
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As Lagos continues to serve as a vital hub for Nigerian grassroots football, all eyes will be on the LSFA’s next steps. The outcome of Gafar’s ongoing investigation could set a precedent on how future issues of integrity in local football are handled.
Picture Credit: Hajji Gafar Facebook Page
