Tensions ran high at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Archery Federation (NAF) as several delegates from 8 out of 10 recognized archery-active states were reportedly locked out of the venue by officials under the directive of Federation President Abdullah. The unexpected exclusion led to an uproar, with affected members protesting outside the meeting hall, demanding answers and access.

According to eyewitnesses, security personnel barred some accredited delegates from entering the conference room at the ANOCA conference room, Jahi, Abuja, where the AGM was being held. The reason for their exclusion remains unclear, but sources suggest it may have been linked to internal disputes over governance issues within the Federation.

One of the locked-out delegates, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the situation. “We came here for a democratic process, yet we are being sidelined without any justifiable reason. This is unacceptable,” he said, citing Article 11 of the Nigeria Archery Federation.

Inside the venue, the meeting proceeded amid controversy, with discussions centered around the development of archery in Nigeria, funding issues, and preparations for upcoming international competitions. However, the growing unrest outside the hall threatened to overshadow the event.

Efforts to reach President Abdullah for comments were unsuccessful, but a senior Federation official defended the action, claiming that only “properly accredited” delegates were allowed in.

The incident has sparked reactions from various sports stakeholders, with calls for transparency and fairness in the administration of Nigerian archery. Whether this controversy will impact the Federation’s leadership remains to be seen.