Governance Crisis Forces Indefinite Postponement of Kickboxing Federation Election

The much-anticipated election of the Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria (KBFN), scheduled for last Saturday, has been postponed indefinitely following widespread protests over the alleged misconduct of the federation’s secretary, Javan Bernard.

According to the electoral committee, the decision was taken due to “serious governance concerns and protests from stakeholders” who accused the process of disenfranchising eligible candidates. Outgoing KBFN President, Wilson Okon, confirmed that the postponement was a result of intense opposition and governance-related grievances raised by members.

Efforts by the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, to mediate and restore calm reportedly failed. Stakeholders have since demanded an independent audit of the federation’s operations, a new election timetable, and transparent measures to address the alleged irregularities involving the secretary.

The controversy came even as the NSC successfully concluded elections across 18 other sports federations at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, where new presidents and board members were inaugurated. NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, congratulated the newly elected officials and urged them to demonstrate active, innovative leadership that promotes integrity, athlete development, resource mobilisation, and grassroots engagement.