By Victor Okoye
The Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) and the African Golf Confederation (AGC) have dismissed reports alleging the suspension of the NGF as false, misleading and the handiwork of unscrupulous persons.
NGF President Otunba Olusegun Runsewe described the reports published by several online platforms as malicious, saying they were neither authorised nor verified by the relevant authorities.
Runsewe threatened legal action against the publishers of the report, accusing them of disseminating falsehood capable of damaging the reputation of the federation and Nigerian golf.
“We will not hesitate to seek redress in court against those behind this malicious publication. Journalism must be guided by facts and professionalism, not speculation and misinformation,” he said.
He maintained that the alleged suspension never existed, adding that the NGF had already settled its affiliation obligation to the AGC electronically before the reports surfaced.
“The issue of suspension does not arise because the affiliation fee of 1,500 dollars was paid electronically since last week.
“The information circulated was half-baked and clearly intended to mislead the public,” Runsewe stated.
The NGF President explained that payment of international affiliation fees remains the responsibility of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and not individual sports federations.
“Affiliation fees are the responsibility of the National Sports Commission. The commission has always handled such obligations on behalf of national federations,” he said.
Runsewe disclosed that he personally contacted AGC President, Amb. Johnson Omolo, who denied authorising any interview or issuing any statement announcing the suspension of the NGF.
“I spoke directly with Amb. Johnson Omolo. He categorically told me that neither the AGC nor its officials granted any interview or issued any press release to any media organisation on the purported suspension of Nigeria.”
“That alone confirms that the report was fabricated by persons who failed to verify their claims with the appropriate authorities before publication,” he added.
Runsewe further clarified that the African Golf Confederation has no administrative role in the All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), which is organised independently.
“The AGC sanctions men’s golfing events, while programmes of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) are recognised under the All Africa Challenge Trophy Association (AACTA).
“They are separate organisations with different responsibilities,” he explained.
He therefore dismissed attempts to link the alleged NGF suspension with Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy as unfounded.
According to him, preparations for the championship remain on course, with about 30 African countries expected to participate in the tournament.
“I commend Dr Lami Ahmed, President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, and her team for the excellent work they are doing towards hosting the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy.”
“We are already expecting about 30 countries in Nigeria, and all stakeholders remain committed to delivering a successful championship,” Runsewe said.
He urged the media and the public to disregard the false reports, insisting that Nigerian golf remained united and fully focused on hosting a successful continental championship.(NAN)