NGO Secures Court Order Against EFCC, AFN Officials Over Alleged Corruption
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted an order for substituted service in a legal action brought by the Incorporated Trustees of Athletics and Other Sports Development Initiative. The suit seeks to compel the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate allegations of misappropriation and diversion of funds within the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
Presiding Judge Hon. Justice G. K. Olotu granted the plaintiff leave to serve the originating processes on three named defendants—AFN President Tonobok Okowa, former Secretary General Rita Mosindi, and NSC Director General Bukola Olopade—via substituted means by pasting the court documents on the notice board of the AFN Secretariat at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The case is scheduled for hearing on 30th September 2025.
The NGO’s petition, dated 15th April 2024, alleges misuse of sponsorship funds tied to a contractual agreement between the AFN and Premium Trust Bank. It highlights irregular payments totaling ₦70 million into undisclosed accounts, and claims that Okowa reimbursed himself ₦40 million as a “loan” to the federation without any formal agreement or documented board approval.
The plaintiff is also seeking:
A judicial declaration that the EFCC is legally obligated to investigate reported economic crimes.
An order compelling the EFCC to initiate and conclude investigations into its petition.
Interim suspension of the named AFN and NSC officials pending outcome of the investigation.
Enforcement of transparency in accordance with the AFN’s contractual and constitutional guidelines.
The Incorporated Trustees of Athletics and Other Sports Development Initiative maintains that the court action is in fulfillment of its mission to protect public interest and uphold the integrity of sports in Nigeria.
