Osas Idehen's 11th goal of the season with just eight minutes of play left secured a nervy win for the Peoples' Elephant against Rangers in Aba on Sunday.
Title rivals Kano Pillars failed to keep up the pressure, going down 1-2 to Sunshine Stars in Akure. But the story of the weekend happened in Ilorin, where Kwara United put six past Ranchers Bees.
Yusuf Jaiyeola and Nasiru Ali scored a brace each, with Sibi Gwar and Maroof Mohammed accounting for the balance.
The results means Bees are relegated, with Gateway, who lost 2-0 to Kaduna United, joining them as the first two sides to be confirmed for the drop.
In Port Harcourt, Sharks dented Heartland's slim continental hopes with a 1-0 victory, while Shooting Stars eased their relegation worries with a 2-1 win over Niger Tornadoes.
Wikki Tourists however remain in trouble after they failed to find a way past Dolphins, despite playing at home. The game finished 0-0 and could ultimately prove costly for the Bauchi side.
Zamfara United consolidated their road victory last match day with a 1-0 home win over Gombe United in Gusau and Lobi Stars hopes of staying up were considerably brightened by a 3-1 win over Warri Wolves.
Wolves are now two points behind Kwara in the chase for the Confederation Cup spot.
Your comments on this story...
Members of your FA need to be given lashes in public for failling to think ahead.
Good success all africa teems in world cup...