The Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) has taken a significant step toward enhancing transparency and integrity in sports governance by inaugurating the Election Petitions Committee and the Election Appeals Committee.
These bodies are tasked with overseeing the electoral processes of sports federations, ensuring fairness and adherence to international standards.
The NSC carefully selected a distinguished group of legal experts, administrators, and media professionals to serve on these committees, reflecting its commitment to excellence.
The Election Petitions Committee is chaired by Barrister Denen Ikyaa, a respected sports ethics expert and member of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) Ethics Committee.
Ikyaa, a former member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Appeals Committee, is joined by Barrister Chike Onyeacho, a seasoned electoral jurisprudence expert, and Mr. Paul Esheyigba, known for his administrative oversight skills. Mr. Niyi Alabi Aliebiosu, Sports Editor at the Nigerian Tribune, brings journalistic expertise, while Miss Linda Akalugwa, a dedicated legal professional, serves as both a member and secretary, ensuring procedural precision.
The Election Appeals Committee is led by A.U. Mustapha, SAN, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria with extensive experience in sports law and arbitration. Mustapha, who chaired the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee from 2016 to 2024, is joined by Barrister Chris Umar, SAN, former Solicitor-General of Kaduna State, and Barrister Owoicho Adejo-Ogiri, an international sports law expert serving on the FIA International Tribunal.
Mrs. Prisca Ngozi Udoka, SAN, a Harvard-trained mediator and founder of Perazim Law Partners, adds her legal prowess, having secured high-profile electoral victories.
Mr. Lateef Olatunji Surakatu, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, serves as secretary, bringing over two decades of audit and advisory experience.
The NSC expressed confidence that these committees, composed of individuals with impeccable credentials, will strengthen trust in Nigeria’s sports election framework, fostering a culture of accountability and fairness.