May 24, (THEWILL) – The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has responded to allegations that it violated constitutional requirements in convening an Emergency Extraordinary Congress on May 25, in Abuja.
AFN President, Tonobok Okowa, affirmed that the Federation had followed all laid down principles and that World Athletics was fully aware of the emergency congress. Addressing concerns raised by the 1st Vice President, Tafida Gadzama, regarding the 15-day notice requirement, Okowa remarked: “Because it is an Emergency Congress, those rules of giving 15 days notice do not apply.”
Stressing the need to address constitutional issues squarely, Okowa clarified that the AFN had conducted its regular Congress in January. To facilitate the emergency nature of the Congress, the Federation made provisions for the feeding and accommodation of its members. Okowa defended this decision, saying, “We operate an open door policy, and it is good we make this clarification to all Nigerians.”
Gadzama had cautioned Okowa against violating the Federation’s Constitution with regard to the emergency congress. Gadzama pointed out that the extraordinary congress scheduled for Thursday was not in accordance with Article 10.1.7 of the Federation’s 2023 Constitution (as amended).
