Rivers United beat Akwa United 2-0 to slow down the title charge of the Uyo club, while MFM FC beat Nasarawa 2-1 in rescheduled NPFL matches.
Had Akwa United won in Port Harcourt today, they would have moved to second place on 26 points, four points behind leaders Lobi Stars.
The loss means they remain in third place with two matches at hand due to international engagements.
Rivers United went in front in the 31st minute, when Emeka Ogbugh ticked away a penalty after Etim Matthew had fouled him inside the box on his way to goal.
Malachy Ohawume made it 2-0 for the home team in the 82nd minute, when he guided home Chikere’s header.