Rivers United's 2-1 win against Lobi Stars moves them up to 2nd and behind top on goal difference. Nelson Esor opened the scoring but Rivers were pegged back in the 18th minute through John Lazarus' strike. Malachi Ohawuma won the game for the hosts with 15 minutes left.
The result means that Plateau United are down to 3rd after losing 2-1 away to Sunshine Stars, who are incidentally up to 4th. Plateau United have now lost 3 of their last 5 games.
5th place Dakkada were shocked 3-0 at home to Nasarawa United on Thursday. Anas Yusuf grabbed a brace as they move 2 points from safety.
Adamawa United are now bottom despite holding Wikki Tourist to a 0-0 draw. Enugu Rangers are off the bottom after winning 2-1 away to Warri Wolves. Jigawa Golden Stars complete the relegation zone as they lost 2-1 away to MFM.
Elsewhere, Akwa United lost 2-0 at home to Kwara United, Katsina United drew 1-1 at home to Kano Pillars, Enyimba lost 2-0 at home to Heartland, and Abia Warriors won 2-1 at home to Ifeanyi Uba.