Sports

Games Integrity Drive Sees Five Athletes Shown the Exit

Published

15 hours ago

February 25, 2026

Joel Ajayi

Five athletes have been disqualified from the ongoing Niger Delta Games following investigations into eligibility concerns ranging from age discrepancies to state-of-origin violations.

According to findings contained in the official protest report, Otunla Kolade Israel (Edo State) was disqualified and stripped of his medals in swimming after his National Identification Number (NIN) indicated he is from Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The athlete had won five gold medals and one silver, all of which have now been withdrawn.
In handball,

John Vera and Ayimba Maria (Bayelsa State) were both disqualified on grounds of age declaration, with documentation reportedly showing they were overage for their category.

Goodness Ekunke (Chess) was also disqualified after inconsistencies were discovered in submitted eligibility documents.

Meanwhile, Okafor Adolphus (Ondo State, Athletics) was removed from the competition following investigations that revealed issues relating to state of origin and age declaration. Investigations reveal he is from Anambra State.
However, not all protested cases resulted in sanctions.

Bright Joel Udoh (Edo State, Table Tennis) and Wisdom Chibueze Nweke (Abia State, Tennis) were cleared after reviews found insufficient grounds for disqualification.

In athletics, Ngozi Okereke Treasure (Delta State) was deemed eligible to compete despite an age discrepancy flagged by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, as no legal documentation was provided to substantiate the claim.

The disciplinary decisions underscore the Games’ commitment to upholding eligibility rules and maintaining competitive integrity across all participating states

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Sports

Edemodu Felicitates With Hon Victor Ochei at 57, Applauds Transformational Leadership

Published

14 hours ago

February 25, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Renowned academic and media professional, Austin Edemodu, PhD, has paid glowing tribute to President of Tennis Federation of Nigeria Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei as he marks his 57th birthday anniversary, describing him as a distinguished leader whose life embodies service, excellence, and integrity.

In a heartfelt birthday message titled “OLIKEZE @57,” Edemodu joined family members, friends, associates, and the sporting community in celebrating a man he described as a shining testament to visionary leadership and national development.

He prayed for greater wisdom, abundant resources, and robust health for the former lawmaker, noting that his remarkable contributions to sports, politics, and philanthropy continue to make meaningful impact across sectors.

According to Edemodu, Ochei’s leadership journey reflects uncommon dedication, patriotism, and a deep commitment to public service. He described him as an epitome of good conscience, selflessness, and pragmatism qualities that have defined his career as a seasoned politician, accomplished engineer, lawyer, and legislator par excellence.

Highlighting his role in sports administration, Edemodu commended Ochei’s stewardship in tennis development, noting that under his guidance, the sport has witnessed renewed energy and purposeful direction. He emphasized that such progress reinforces the belief that transformative leadership is anchored on clarity of vision and courage of conviction.

On a personal note, Edemodu acknowledged that working with Ochei as a Media Assistant has significantly enriched his professional and intellectual growth. He praised his mentorship, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence, describing them as a constant source of inspiration.

He concluded by wishing the celebrant many more impactful and fulfilling years ahead, expressing confidence that the new chapter of his life would usher in even greater accomplishments and a lasting legacy.

“Happy Birthday, OLIKEZE,” he declared.

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