Mighty Jets, Barau FC: NNL sheds light on closed gates order

The leadership of the Nigeria National League (NNL) has clarified its directive that the final Conference C Matchday 12 fixture between Mighty Jets of Jos and Barau FC of Kano be played behind closed doors at the Jos City Stadium on Sunday.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of NNL, Danlami Alanana, while reacting to public reactions and media commentary surrounding the decision, said the measure was taken following a formal request from the home team, Mighty Jets.

The COO said, “Mighty Jets of Jos wrote a letter to us requesting that they play their home match under closed doors, citing security concerns as the basis of their request. We had no option than to oblige their request.”

Alanana, however, emphasised that the decision was not imposed by the league body but rather a response to the club’s expressed concerns, adding that stakeholders should ensure proper verification of facts before making public statements.

And in line with the directive, the NNL has tasked the Plateau State Football Association, chaired by Honourable Suleiman Kwande, to ensure that comprehensive security arrangements are in place for the fixture.

The match, which holds significant implications for the league standings, will now proceed without fans in attendance, as safety remains the league’s top priority.