"Let the Rules Prevail": Clement Chukwu Blasts AFN Over Victor Okorie’s Candidacy

 "Let the Rules Prevail": Clement Chukwu Blasts AFN Over Victor Okorie’s Candidacy

In a strong rebuke of what he calls a “clear violation” of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s (AFN) election guidelines, Olympic gold medalist and respected athletics stakeholder, Clement Chukwu, has raised the alarm over the eligibility of Victor Okorie, the current AFN Performance Director, to contest as the South East Zonal Representative.

Chukwu, who is not contesting in the upcoming elections scheduled for June 2nd and 3rd, submitted a detailed petition to the AFN Electoral Committee, citing Article 9 of the Federation's electoral guidelines, particularly section 9.1.1.3(a), which renders a candidate ineligible if declared bankrupt by a competent court.

 “The guidelines are clear. Bankruptcy is a disqualifying factor. We can’t continue to ignore our own rules and expect credible leadership,” Chukwu stated.

Official court documents that Chukwu presented show that Victor Okorie filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on July 21, 2020, at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Middle District of Tennessee), and was declared bankrupt on October 19, 2020. Despite this, AFN Secretary General, Mr. Israel Inwang is reportedly allowing Okorie’s candidacy to stand.

 “I’m not running in this election. I have nothing personal at stake,” Chukwu emphasized. “But we must set the record straight. If we want credible representation for the South East, we must uphold the integrity of our own guidelines.”

 “We can’t keep lamenting about a broken system and still be the ones enabling it. The rules are there for a reason. Let’s respect them.”

 “The bankruptcy declaration isn’t speculation; it’s public record. Any attempt to sweep this under the rug is a betrayal of the trust athletes and stakeholders placed in this system.”

Chukwu's petition, dated May 25, 2025, was sent to AFN President Tonobok Okowa, the Secretary General, and key members of the National Sports Commission. In it, he warned that allowing Okorie to contest may not only compromise the integrity of the elections but also expose the federation to legal and ethical scrutiny.

 “This isn’t just about Victor Okorie. It’s about whether the AFN is serious about reform and credibility. If we bend the rules for one person because he's in your camp, we lose all moral ground,” Chukwu added.

With the elections imminent, the AFN is under pressure to respond to Chukwu’s petition and uphold its own constitution.

 “It’s now up to the AFN Electoral Panel to choose between enforcing the law or enabling impunity. The world is watching.” Chukwu concluded.