The Nigeria National League (NNL) has officially explained the reason behind the decision to hold the Matchday 12 fixture between Mighty Jets and Barau FC behind closed doors—and contrary to circulating claims, it was not a disciplinary move, but a security measure requested by the home team.

According to NNL Chief Operating Officer Danlami Alanana, the decision followed a formal appeal from Mighty Jets themselves, who cited security concerns as the primary reason for wanting to play without fans at the New Jos Stadium.

“Mighty Jets wrote a letter to us requesting that they play their home match behind closed doors, citing security concerns as the basis for their request. We had no option but to oblige their request,” Alanana clarified.

This statement directly counters speculation suggesting the league imposed the restriction. Alanana urged stakeholders and commentators to verify facts before making public assumptions, especially when such issues stir fan emotions and impact league reputation.

⚖️ Opinion: Security First, But Transparency Matters

While it's commendable that the NNL acted swiftly to prioritize safety, the silence leading up to this announcement left too much room for misinterpretation. In a country where football is more than just a game—it's a unifier—clarity is essential, especially when fans are being locked out.

At the same time, Mighty Jets deserve credit for proactively prioritizing safety, even if it means sacrificing the home crowd advantage. It's a reminder that football without fans is never ideal, but safety must come first.

🔒 What's Next?

The Plateau State Football Association, chaired by Hon. Suleiman Kwande, has now been tasked with ensuring comprehensive security arrangements are implemented around the venue to avoid future occurrences.

The high-stakes match is scheduled for Sunday at 3 p.m., and while fans won’t be in the stands, eyes across the league will certainly be watching.

📣 What are your thoughts on matches being played behind closed doors in Nigeria’s lower leagues? Is this a sign of better safety awareness—or a symptom of deeper issues? Join the conversation!