League leaders Ikorodu City dropped valuable points at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, settling for a 1–1 draw against Bayelsa United.
Ettah Ikoi silenced the home crowd in the 35th minute with a well-taken opener. However, debutant Olanrewaju Molade responded in style, curling in a superb free kick in the 63rd minute to salvage a point.
Despite the setback, the Oga Boys remain top with 45 points from 27 matches. Still, their advantage has narrowed significantly.
Rangers Slip in Katsina
Second-placed Enugu Rangers also failed to capitalise. They laboured to a goalless draw against Katsina United at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
Uche Collins came close with an acrobatic effort, while Richard Christopher struck the woodwork late on. Nevertheless, the Flying Antelopes had to settle for a single point, leaving them on 44.
Nasarawa Close the Gap
Meanwhile, Nasarawa United seized the opportunity. John Joshua’s first-half strike secured a 1–0 victory over Bendel Insurance in Lafia.
The Solid Miners now share 44 points with Rangers and sit just one point behind Ikorodu City. As a result, the title race has tightened considerably.
Rivers, Abia Stay in the Hunt
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United played out a 1–1 draw with Enyimba. Abiodun Joseph gave the visitors the lead before Aniekeme Okon restored parity before halftime. Rivers sit fourth on 43 points with games in hand, keeping their hopes alive.
Similarly, Abia Warriors strengthened their continental ambitions with a 1–0 win over Kwara United. They now occupy fifth place on 43 points.
Relegation Battle Heats Up
At the bottom, the survival fight took a sharp twist. Kun Khalifat claimed a crucial 2–0 victory over Niger Tornadoes in Owerri. Adamu Mohammed and Oghenetega Ebetomame found the net, lifting the team to 28 points and off the bottom for the first time since December.
In contrast, defending champions Remo Stars remain rooted in 20th place after a 2–1 defeat to Wikki Tourists in Jos. Jonathan Mairiga and Hassan Musa scored for the hosts before Samson Olasupo pulled one back.
Other Results
Elsewhere, Kano Pillars boosted their survival hopes with a dominant 3–0 win over El Kanemi Warriors. Plateau United thrashed Shooting Stars 4–1, while Warri Wolves and Barau played out a goalless draw.
With just a handful of matches remaining, the NPFL title race remains wide open. At the same time, the battle to avoid relegation promises even more drama in the weeks ahead.
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