Presidents of some national sports federations have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene regarding what they described as the undue interference in the political structures or internal affairs of the federations.
During a meeting with sports journalists in Abuja, Dr. Musa Oshodi, President of the Judo Federation of Nigeria, and Kelvin Erhunmwunse, President of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria, voiced their concerns about the current state of Nigerian sports.
Dr. Oshodi expressed his deep apprehension, stating, “From what I’m witnessing at present, I must say I am profoundly concerned — and I believe any well-meaning Nigerian who desires positive national transformation would share this sentiment.”
He went on to criticise the NSC management of the recent federation elections, asserting, “The manner in which the recent federation elections are being handled is alarming. The National Sports Commission should not interfere in the political structures or internal affairs of any federation.”
Dr. Oshodi further alleged that the DG is pursuing a deliberate agenda to undermine the President’s initiatives, saying, “It is evident that the Director-General of the National Sports Commission is executing this agenda. The way he communicates and addresses others suggests he sees himself as above everyone else, almost like a semi-god.”
He urged President Tinubu to take immediate action, declaring, “I therefore call on Mr. President to urgently investigate this matter and take appropriate measures to safeguard Nigerian sports.”
Echoing these sentiments, Erhunmwunse remarked, “The confusion and misinformation currently unfolding are the result of these same individuals. From what we have gathered, it is becoming increasingly clear that a specific individual is intent on undermining the President’s commendable plans for sports development.”
He added, “The President’s initiative to establish a robust and independent Sports Commission is a commendable idea that we have long desired. However, regrettably, someone appointed to lead this effort has shown a blatant disregard for established authority, treating sports matters as though they were private enterprises.”
The Gymnastics Federation President stressed that sports are governed by international rules and regulations, which the NSC DG appears to overlook. He cautioned that the current actions could tarnish Nigeria’s reputation and undermine the seriousness of the President’s sports policy in the eyes of the international sports community.
