A group of Nigerian amateur boxing coaches and boxers has expressed dissatisfaction with the country’s performance at the ongoing Commonwealth Games, blaming what they describe as poor leadership and questionable decision-making within the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF).
In a statement, the coaches alleged that the influence of the NBF Vice President, Mr. Yakubu Imadu Omonlei, popularly known as “Yucateco,” has contributed to what they described as one of the most disappointing outings for Nigeria’s amateur boxing team in recent years.
According to the statement, Nigeria was represented by six amateur boxers—three men and three women. The coaches claimed that three members of the squad, Khadijat Ajoshola, Abdulwahab Rahmon, and David Akintola, are affiliated with a boxing stable allegedly linked to Mr. Omonlei through Akil Boxing Club. They argued that such arrangements raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest and should not exist within amateur boxing.
The coaches further questioned the selection process for the women’s team. They alleged that Lagos boxer Blessing Orakwe, who reportedly qualified in the 70kg category after defeating UK-based Patricia Mbata at the national trials, was subsequently affected by changes to the weight-class selections.
According to the statement, the decision to include both athletes in different weight categories was influenced by federation officials rather than sporting merit.
At the time of the statement, four of Nigeria’s six boxers had reportedly exited the competition after first-round defeats against fellow African opponents. The coaches described the results as evidence that the selection process had failed to produce the country’s strongest possible team.
They also alleged that several boxers who performed well during the national trials, including Rilwan “Oloyo” Salau, were overlooked in favour of athletes associated with Mr. Omonlei. The statement further claimed that Abdulwahab Rahmon, who was named the best boxer at the inaugural Yucateco Boxing Trials, was publicly promised a vehicle as a reward, although the coaches said they had not seen evidence that the gift was ever delivered.
Beyond team selection, the coaches accused Mr. Omonlei of focusing on disputes within Nigeria’s professional boxing structure rather than his responsibilities in amateur boxing.
They referenced the arrest of the general secretary of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBOC), Mr. Remi Aboderin, on allegations relating to forged identity documents and passports. According to the statement, the police later cleared Mr. Aboderin after an investigation.
The coaches also questioned the circumstances surrounding Mr. Omonlei’s emergence as NBF vice president. They alleged that his eligibility to contest the election was inconsistent with the federation’s constitution, which they claim requires candidates to be registered members of a state chapter before seeking elective office. They further questioned why he contested under the Ogun State chapter despite being identified with Edo State.
Addressing the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bukola Olopade, the coaches called for an explanation regarding the approval of Mr. Omonlei’s candidature. They argued that the situation has undermined confidence in the administration of amateur boxing in Nigeria.
The statement concluded with a call for Mr. Omonlei’s immediate removal from office, urging the President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Mr. Wale Edun, to intervene.
The coaches described Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games campaign as unacceptable, noting that four of the six boxers had been eliminated in their opening bouts.
They also criticised what they described as Mr. Omonlei’s public birthday celebrations in Scotland while the team was experiencing a disappointing tournament.
Packaged by Olanrewaju Agiri
