Former D'Tigers star and presidential aspirant Ejike Ugboaja has urged the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to ensure a transparent and credible process in the forthcoming elections. During an interactive session at his Abuja residence, Ugboaja formally declared his intention to contest for the office of President of the NBBF. He emphasized the need for a level playing field for all aspirants, with equal access to information.
Ugboaja expressed concerns about the poor communication with stakeholders in the build-up to the election, questioning the manner in which they were being treated. He noted that there are clear constitutional provisions requiring proper notice before an election, and stakeholders have raised questions about whether those provisions are being respected. The former national team player alleged that there are ongoing moves at the state level that suggest manipulation of the process.
The presidential hopeful pointed to what he described as signs of a conspiracy to hand over the federation to a particular aspirant, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi. He cited the recent Final Four event in Lagos, where he said one aspirant was given undue prominence. Ugboaja added that the display created a perception of bias, noting that when one person's image is prominently displayed at an event, it creates the impression that the process may be favoring that person.
Reacting to speculations that outgoing President Musa Kida has anointed someone as his successor, Ugboaja said such preference, if true, should not compromise fairness. He stressed that he has no government backing, but relies on his pedigree in the game. Ugboaja noted that he has played for Nigeria at the national-team level, including at the Olympics, and has represented the country since 2001.
On his plans for the sport if elected, Ugboaja said Nigerian basketball needs full-time attention and structure. He plans to restore a proper calendar that will take basketball to secondary schools and universities and strengthen the Premier League. According to him, the current system of two-week leagues is killing the game, and he wants to establish a league that lasts at least eight months.
Ugboaja concluded with a call for reform, urging that everybody is free to contest, but all he is asking for is a fair election. He emphasized that basketball changes lives and takes young people off the streets, adding that it took him off the streets. The former national team player said his position is straightforward: we need a fair election.
Key points
- Ejike Ugboaja calls for a transparent and fair process in the NBBF elections.
- Ugboaja alleges manipulation of the process at the state level.
- He plans to establish a proper calendar for Nigerian basketball if elected.
