By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

In a weekend packed with twists, turns, and nail-biting finishes, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) once again proved why it’s one of the most unpredictable leagues in the world. The Ikenne landlords, Remo Stars, almost left it too late but, like a cat with nine lives, clawed their way to a dramatic 2-0 victory over Kwara United. What many expected to be a walk in the park turned into a nerve-wracking affair, as the Afonja Warriors executed their game plan to near perfection. However, Samuel Anakwe and Hadi Haruna had other ideas, delivering two stunning blows that left Kwara United’s General Manager, Mallam Bashir Badawiy, in utter disbelief. With this win, Remo Stars stretched their lead at the top to a commanding 10 points, further solidifying their title ambitions.

Meanwhile, Enyimba’s woes deepened as former Abia Warriors striker Bello Lukman came back to haunt them, netting two quickfire goals in the 40th and 50th minutes. Despite Ekene Awazie pulling one back from the penalty spot in stoppage time, it was too little, too late for the People’s Elephant. The "Chanji Boys" of Kastina celebrated a hard-fought victory, leaving Enyimba’s title hopes hanging by a thread.

In Umuahia, Abia Warriors continued their meteoric rise, staking their claim to a spot that many thought belonged to Enyimba by birthright. Ijoma Desouza's strike,Abia Warriors new goal machine who has been able to complement Sunday Megwo's efforts sealed a crucial victory over Enugu Rangers, propelling the "Umu Chineke Boys" further up the log table. Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance, rejuvenated by a recent NFF disciplinary committee decision that returned three points deducted earlier in the season, played with renewed vigor. Their newfound form was on full display as they held El-Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, however, the hosts have been grappling with a rough patch ever since their head coach departed for national duties, leaving them to navigate uncharted waters.
Down at the bottom, relegation-threatened Akwa United couldn’t find a way past Rivers United, as the two sides played out a 1-1 draw in Uyo. Mare Abson and Paschal Onunze were the goal scorers in a match that did little to ease Akwa’s relegation fears. Bayelsa United, on the other hand, relied on the heroics of Ogba Ifeanyi, who struck in the 98th minute to salvage a draw against Nasarawa United. Idris Ajiya’s brace had put Nasarawa in the driving seat, but Bayelsa’s never-say-die attitude ensured they walked away with a point.

In Ibadan, title hopefuls Shooting Stars (3SC) were left stunned by a resurgent Lobi Stars, who played with a fire that had been missing all season. Despite the shock resignation of their manager, Daniel Amokachi, just days before the match, Lobi Stars delivered an inspired performance. Joshua Akpan put 3SC ahead, but Martin Ossy’s brace turned the game on its head before Sadiq Ibrahim’s late equalizer saved 3SC from an embarrassing home defeat. The match ended 2-2, leaving both teams with mixed feelings.

Elsewhere, Sunshine Stars and Kano Pillars shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, while Ikorodu City, the "Oga Boys," came from behind to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Plateau United. Niger Tornadoes, known for their away-day heroics, pulled off another trick from their bag, overcoming a goal deficit to beat Naze Millionaires 2-1.

As the NPFL season enters its business end, the drama continues to unfold. From title chasers to relegation battlers, every match is a rollercoaster, and this weekend was no exception. Who will rise? Who will fall? One thing is certain: the NPFL never fails to deliver heart-stopping action.