The former president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Honourable Olamide George, has chided his predecessor Tonobok Okowa over the worrisome state of state of athletics in Nigeria, saying it has reached an all-time low under the current leadership of the federation.
George, who is the chairman of the Ondo State Athletics Association, condemned Okowa’s leadership, describing it as the worst in the AFN’s history, marred by illegality and controversy during his election.
George, in a statement, stated that those who supported Okowa’s presidency have caused more harm than good to the sport. He remarked, “To those who chose to back Okowa in leading the AFN, history silently records our choices until time reveals their true significance.”
He continued, “Whether motivated by loyalty, self-interest, or misjudged intentions, the negligent decisions they endorsed four years ago have undermined the very foundation of our athletics, jeopardising our athletes’ futures and our nation’s sporting legacy.”
“Leadership transcends mere power and alliances; it encompasses the responsibilities, fairness, and an indisputable obligation to prioritise the greater good over personal ambitions,” George added.
Reflecting on Okowa’s tenure, the former lawmaker from Akure lamented that he had hoped the president would build upon the progress made by his administration, despite the controversies surrounding his election.
“I am aware that the election that brought Okowa to power was illegitimate. For instance, more than 40 votes were cast, while the 2017 AFN Constitution stipulates that only state Chairpersons (or Secretaries in their absence) are allowed to vote as delegates.
“We have 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, meaning only 37 votes should have been cast. This renders the election invalid; however, as a true supporter of the sport, I refrained from taking legal action. Doing so would have revealed our Federation’s blatant disregard for its governing documents.”
George expressed his disappointment that Okowa did not prioritise the welfare of athletes as he and his board had during their shorter tenure. He recounted, “We ensured not only ample competition opportunities for the athletes but also provided accommodation, transport subsidies, and prize money. In 2020, we managed two competitions prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted events worldwide.”
“In 2021, we began the season with the all-comers meet in Akure, which I fully sponsored, alongside support from the Ondo State Government for a second event. We also secured sponsorship from Ekiti and Edo state governments for competitions that laid the groundwork for the 21st National Sports Festival in April.”
George emphasised the positive impact of these competitions, stating that many of Nigeria’s athletes improved their personal bests, leading to the qualification of two domestically trained sprinters, Enoch Adegoke and Grace Nzubechi Nwokocha, for the Tokyo Olympics—an historic achievement.
The former AFN president has urged the National Sports Commission, which oversees all sports federations in Nigeria, to ensure that only credible, visionary individuals with a clean track record are permitted to lead the AFN and other sports federations.
He called upon Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, chairman and director-general of the National Sports Commission, to implement a thorough and transparent vetting process for those contesting leadership roles within the AFN. This process should encompass a comprehensive verification of credentials, assessment of past achievements, and checks for any criminal records.
“A meticulous review of academic qualifications is essential to ensure candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills for effective leadership. Their previous roles and professional accomplishments must demonstrate commitment to excellence and ethical standards. Additionally, scrutiny of any connections to doping offences or drug-related activities is crucial to ensure that individuals without questionable histories hold positions of responsibility.”
“This is not merely a procedural requirement; it is a moral obligation to safeguard the integrity of our athletics community. Those with tarnished records must not govern the aspirations and futures of our athletes, who rely on fair and transparent leadership,” he advised.
George concluded by emphasising that historical evidence shows that strong and ethical governance is vital for the success of sports federations. Anything less risks discrediting not only the AFN but the entire Nigerian sporting landscape on the global stage. “We, as stakeholders, are counting on your diligence and fairness to ensure that only those of impeccable character, dedication, and competence are entrusted with such essential leadership roles.”
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