By our reporter 18.10.2026
Former Nigerian basketball players Olumide Oyedeji and Ejike Ugboaja have rejected last week’s Nigeria Basketball Federation election which threw up Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha as president.
Oyedeji a former D’Tigers captain said he is considering ways to seek justice for what he described as an arranged election. He questioned the fairness and transparency of the process, insisting that candidates should be given equal opportunities to contest.
“It was a selection, even though there was an election,” Oyedeji said in an interview.
“Yes, I eventually lost, but I believe the outcome had already been predetermined.”
According to him, the issue goes beyond his personal ambition, stressing that other athletes and former internationals could face similar challenges if adequate safeguards are not put in place.
“If this could happen to me, it could happen to many other Nigerian athletes, former internationals and people who do not have a strong voice.
“All I wanted was justice. If I lose, I lose. I do not have to win. But the process must be fair, transparent and properly conducted. The right procedures must be followed, and the outcome must be declared with integrity.
“However, this will certainly not end here. I am determined to seek justice, and I will continue to pursue it. This is not integrity.”
On his part Ejike said he walked out of election venue before voting commenced.
“I could not lend my presence to a process whose credibility and integrity I seriously questioned.
“I observed circumstances that raised serious concerns about the legitimacy of the chairmen and delegates present and the credibility of the electoral process.
“Based on these observations, I became convinced that the process was structured to favour the emergence of Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha as NBBF President. These concerns deserve clear answers and transparent scrutiny.
“This is not about personal vendetta. It is about fairness, accountability and the future of Nigerian basketball. Every eligible candidate deserves a level playing field and every legitimate stakeholder deserves a voice.
“My demands are clear: an independent review of the election, verification of delegate’s credentials, publication of official voting records and a transparent assessment of compliance with the NBBF electoral rules. Where material irregularities are established, appropriate corrective measures must follow in accordance with the applicable rules and laws.
“I will also seek redress through the appropriate legal and institutional channels to ensure that these concerns are formally addressed and that due process, fairness and accountability are upheld. No process should be beyond scrutiny, and no individual should be above the rules governing Nigerian basketball.”