Warriors extended their lead in Nigeria's top division to six points from two games.
After taking all three points in their first encounter at the new Awka Stadium against Enugu Rangers, Abia Warriors returned to their fortress in Umuahia after a three-year hiatus to reward their loyal home fans with a victory against the visitors from Yenagoa.
Kalu Nweke gave the Warriors the lead just two minutes into the game, and second-half goals from Bello Lukman (65th minute) and Henry Udezuka (87th minute) guaranteed the Abia State-owned team took all three points.
In another Group B match, Rangers suffered their second consecutive defeat of the shortened season, falling 0-1 to Lobi Stars at the Makurdi team's chosen home field in Jos.
Lobi won all three points thanks to a late 82nd-minute goal by Joseph Atule.
Rangers coach Abdul Maikaba is under intense scrutiny after winning only two of their last ten NPFL games last season.
In another Group B match, Dakkada FC fans rejoiced as their beloved team recorded their first win of the season, defeating Wikki Tourists of Bauchi 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
The Tourists took an early lead in the second minute thanks to a goal from Ismalia Maiyaki, but Dakkada equalised in the 30th minute before Aniekan Ekpe completed the comeback after 70 minutes.
Enyimba International and 2021 champions Akwa United battled off a disappointing 0-0 draw at the Enyimba Stadium in Aba in the opening game in Group A. As further Group A matches are scheduled for this evening, the People's Elephant has momentarily risen to the top of the table.
RESULTS
Enyimba 0 – 0 Akwa United
Rangers 1-0 Lobi Stars
Dakkada defeated Wikki Tourist 2-1.
Bayelsa United 3-1 Abia War
TODAY
A Group
Nasarawa vs. El Kanemi
Plateau United vs. Bendel
Remo Stars vs. Gombe
Shooting versus Kwara United
B Group
Doma vs. N'Tornadoes
Rivers United vs. Sunshine
(Source: www.thisdaylive.com)
