Former D’Tigers coach Ayodele Bakare has called on stakeholders in Nigerian basketball to assess Olumide Oyedeji based on his individual record and responsibilities rather than decisions taken by previous administrations.
Bakare made the call as Oyedeji continues to attract attention ahead of the forthcoming Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) presidential election.
According to Bakare, Oyedeji’s more than two decades of involvement in Nigerian basketball should be examined through specific roles, documented achievements and contributions to the sport.
Oyedeji, a former Nigeria international and national-team captain, has been involved in basketball as a player, administrator and grassroots development advocate.
Bakare calls for evidence-based assessment
Bakare argued that Oyedeji’s participation in previous NBBF administrations should not automatically make him personally responsible for every decision or controversy associated with those bodies.
He said stakeholders should instead identify the responsibilities assigned to Oyedeji, the decisions he personally took and the outcomes of those responsibilities.
“If someone has evidence that Mr. Oyedeji personally made a particular decision, mishandled a particular responsibility, or was personally responsible for a particular failure, then let that evidence be presented and examined,” the report quoted Bakare as saying.
The former D’Tigers coach also pointed to various initiatives associated with Oyedeji’s involvement in Nigerian basketball, including player welfare programmes, league development, grassroots competitions and youth initiatives.
Oyedeji’s basketball background
Oyedeji has represented Nigeria at major international competitions, including the FIBA World Cup and Olympic Games, and has also held administrative positions within basketball structures.
His basketball activities have included grassroots programmes and competitions designed to develop young players, while he has also been involved with club basketball.
Bakare said these records should be examined alongside any criticisms directed at Oyedeji as part of a broader assessment of his suitability for the NBBF presidency.
He also stressed that the same standard should be applied to all candidates in the leadership contest.
The debate comes as stakeholders prepare for a change in the federation’s leadership, with the future administration expected to face issues surrounding league development, player welfare, grassroots basketball and the national teams.
Bakare’s position is that delegates should have access to verifiable records and evidence when assessing the candidates competing to lead Nigerian basketball.
