Legal Storm Brews as AFN Pushes Ahead with Controversial June 12 Elections
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day on June 12, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) finds itself at the center of a legal and constitutional storm.
A motion on notice has been served by a Federal High Court bailiff to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the AFN, challenging the legitimacy of the federation’s upcoming board elections. The elections, scheduled to culminate today with the selection of the AFN President and two Vice Presidents, are proceeding despite mounting legal and procedural concerns.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa is expected to be served with court documents during the elective congress in Abuja. However, Secretary General Israel Inwang reportedly refused service, prompting the bailiff to leave the documents on his car bonnet.
The legal action was initiated by Alhaji Gara Gombe, Chairman of the Gombe State Athletics Association. Gombe is contesting the legality of the AFN’s extraordinary congresses held on December 14, 2024, in Bayelsa and April 10, 2025, in Delta State.
He argues that these congresses violated Article 10.1.5 of the AFN Constitution, which mandates that all relevant documents be sent to state associations at least 30 days before any congress. He contends that the failure to follow this protocol renders all decisions made—including the formation of the Electoral Committee—null and void.
Gombe’s grievances extend beyond procedural violations. He alleges financial mismanagement, including the collection of affiliation fees into a private account, and claims he was unlawfully removed from the AFN’s official WhatsApp group, which he says obstructs his rights as a congress member. He is demanding a halt to all election activities, reinstatement to the group, and full disclosure of financial records and board membership lists.
Despite these legal challenges, the AFN is pressing forward. The elections, initially slated for May 31 in Asaba, were moved to Abuja following NSC’s recommendation for a neutral venue. Okowa is widely expected to be returned unopposed as president, although the process has been marred by disputes over zonal elections, unresolved appeals, and allegations of external interference2.
The NSC, led by Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, has attempted to mediate tensions, urging unity and transparency. However, critics argue that the AFN’s disregard for its own constitution undermines the democratic values that June 12 is meant to celebrate1.
As the elections proceed under a cloud of controversy, the outcome could have far-reaching implications—not just for the AFN’s leadership, but for Nigeria’s credibility in global athletics governance ahead of the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
