Elections: Gymnastics, Judo Presidents Decry Interference by NSC

By Andrew Abah, Abuja

The Presidents of Gymnastics Federation and Judo Federation have jointly described plans by the chieftains of National Sports Commission, NSC to conduct fresh elections as being contrary to the approved Federations constitution recognized by both the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and the international bodies. 

During a press briefing in Abuja, the duo of President of the Nigeria Judo Federation, Dr. Musa Oshodi, and the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria, Kelvin Erhunmwunse, frowned at what they described as “lack of character and competence” of the NSC Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade.

Dr. Oshodi criticized the NSC’s interference in recent sports federation elections, alleging that the Commission has overstepped its mandate. “The way the recent federations elections were handled were highly disturbing. The NSC should not meddle in the internal affairs of federations,” he decried.

He further accused the Director-General of undermining President Tinubu’s sports agenda. “It is clear the DG is pushing a personal agenda that runs contrary to the Mr. President’s vision. His conduct suggests he sees himself as untouchable,” Oshodi added.

Calling for urgent intervention, Dr. Oshodi appealed directly to President Tinubu: “Mr. President must act now to save Nigerian sports from collapse. The current leadership of the Commission is derailing the reforms we all hope for.”

Echoing these sentiments, the Gymnastics Federation President, Kelvin Erhunmwunse expressed frustration over what he described as deliberate efforts to frustrate progress. “There’s clear evidence of sabotage. The confusion and misinformation we’re seeing are being orchestrated by people within the system.”

Erhunmwunse praised President Tinubu’s initiative to create a strong and independent Sports Commission but warned that its implementation is being mishandled. “What was meant to be a transformative initiative is now being run like a private business. The current leadership shows blatant disregard for global sports standards and constitutional authority.”

He also cautioned that the situation, if left unchecked, could tarnish Nigeria’s image on the international stage and make the country’s sports policies appear unserious.

The stakeholders, therefore, call on President Tinubu to urgently review the leadership of the NSC and take decisive action to restore credibility and professionalism in Nigerian sports administration.