AFN Extraordinary Congress: Gadzama Warns Against Violation Of  Constitution

Tafida Gadzama, the first vice president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), has declared that the Thursday’s extraordinary congress of the athletics body is not convened pursuant to article 10.1.7 of the federation’s 2023 constitution (as amended).

In a letter he addressed to AFN president, Tonobok Okowa, which was sighted by our correspondent, Gadzama, warned that the constitution of the AFN should be respected.

The 44-year-old Olympic gold medalist’s letter to AFN boss reads: ‘I write to draw your attention to the notice of congress issued on Tuesday May 16, 2023 by the Secretary General based on your directive to convene an Extraordinary Congress of the AFN for May 25, 2023 in Abuja.

‘The notice was dated May 16, 2023 which means the Congress is to hold nine days from the date of notice issued. This is a violation of article 10.1.7 of the AFN constitution (2023 as amended) which stipulates 15 working days notice to be given for an Extraordinary Congress to hold.’

‘I am sure you are aware of the implications of violating provisions of the AFN constitution. I also know, Mr President, that you will not want to be seen as somebody who does not have regard for due process.’

‘In the notice of meeting issued Mr President, I also noticed that the AFN under your leadership says Congress members will be accommodated and given transport fares.’

‘This is another violation of the AFN constitution, Article 10.6.3 which makes it clear that Congress members will be responsible for their travel and accommodation.’

‘This may be seen as a way of inducing members of congress ahead of the congress. Mr President, as you are aware, the majority of members of the board have drawn your attention to these violations and I, as the first vice president, feel it is necessary to officially draw your attention to them so that you can let your actions be guided by the provisions of the constitution henceforth.

‘I hope, Mr President, you can direct the Secretary General to issue another notice pursuant to article 10.1.7 of the AFN constitution.’