And to ensure they don’t lose sight of Akwa United, Nasarawa United also drubbed hapless Sunshine Stars 4-0 at the Lafia township stadium.
2021 NPFL leading goalscorer, Silas Nwankwo scored a brace in the 11th and 16th minute before Aliyu Abdullahi and Chigozie Obasi scored a goal each the 23rd and 4oth minute to complete the eclipsing of the stars from Akure.
At the Ahmadu Bello stadium Kaduna, Rabiu Ali scored from the spot in the 54th minute to hand Kano Pillars the crucial victory over Abia Warriors to remain in third place.
Enyimba also survived MFM’s scare to win 2-1 in Aba to stay close to Pillars for a possible take over of the third spot.