Gymnastics Federation Polls: Olalere Demands Transparency, Due Process Ahead of Fresh Elections

Presidential candidate for the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN), Omowunmi Olalere, has called for transparency, inclusiveness, and strict adherence to due process in the forthcoming federation elections. She urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to ensure a fair and credible process that genuinely reflects the voices of all stakeholders.

Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday at the National Stadium, Lagos, Olalere criticised what she described as poor communication and disenfranchisement of members during the annulled September elections.

> “Normally, for every federation election, once a press release is issued, it circulates widely. However, in the case of gymnastics, many people were unaware. I believe the entire gymnastics community was disenfranchised,” she said.

Olalere, who has served on the GFN board for the past four years and previously ran for the presidency, noted that her tenure as South-West Chairperson allowed her to organise competitions and support athletes despite limited resources.

The September elections, which produced incumbent president Kelvin Erhunmwunse unopposed, were later annulled by the NSC following complaints of irregularities. The Commission ruled that the polls did not align with national sports governance principles and subsequently announced October 25 as the new election date in Abuja.

While welcoming the NSC’s intervention, Olalere emphasised that true reform can only be achieved through a transparent and inclusive process.

> “The NSC’s position is not an enforcement but an appeal for peace and fairness,” she noted. “They suggested that I consider the position of second vice president, but I told them I would consult stakeholders first.”

Olalere, however, declined the offer, stressing that accepting an appointment without proper elections would undermine integrity and further alienate stakeholders.

> “If zonal elections are not conducted and I simply accept an appointed position, it would compromise my principles and worsen divisions within the gymnastics family,” she explained.

She reaffirmed her commitment to fairness and accountability, saying her decision to push for proper elections was driven by her belief in democratic representation.

> “It is wiser to reject the offer and insist on a formal election. Whoever emerges as president will have my full support in reforming the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria,” Olalere stated.

Outlining her vision for the sport, Olalere said her agenda is to “reform, rebuild, and restore faith” in Nigerian gymnastics. She highlighted the urgent need for a functional database, modern training equipment, and improved awareness to nurture young gymnasts across the zones.

The rescheduled Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria elections will take place on October 25 in Abuja under the supervision of the NSC, which has directed that zonal representative elections must be held prior to the national polls to ensure full representation and fairness.