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- Invokes Article 37 to back up defence
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In the midst of swirling controversy, the Chairman of the Lafia Football Association (FA), Aliyu Ibrahim Uba, has vehemently denied allegations of a vote of no confidence passed against him.
In an exclusive interview with Sun on Tuesday, Chairman Uba asserted his continued leadership of the local FA, citing procedural irregularities and a lack of fair hearing in the purported vote.
Uba adamantly refuted the legitimacy of the letter, purportedly signed by his deputy and another member, labelling it a “kangaroo arrangement.”
According to him, the process outlined in the NFF Statutes was not adhered to, casting doubt on the validity of any action taken against him. He described the move as a desperate ploy to undermine his administration and tarnish his reputation.
Invoking Article 37 of the NFF Statutes 2010, Chairman Uba elucidated the stringent procedures mandated for the dismissal of an individual or entity within the football association. This article outlines the requirement for a formal motion, justification, and a secret ballot, ensuring due process and fairness.
Chairman Uba further shed light on the timeline of events surrounding the issuance of the letters of no confidence, highlighting discrepancies that cast doubt on their validity.
He pointed out the incongruity between the dates of the letters and the subsequent press briefing, suggesting a lack of procedural clarity and coordination among the dissenting faction.
“They wrote the first letter on the 16th of last month and posted the letter on the platform on the 26th,” he stated.
The existence of two separate letters, each signed by different individuals, further muddied the waters, raising questions about the unity and legitimacy of the opposition’s stance.
“While the vote of no confidence with a different letter which they wrote on the 27th of May and held the press briefing on the 29th,” he added.
Expressing his refusal to acknowledge any of the purported letters, Chairman Uba explained the need for clarity and consensus in official communications within the Lafia FA.
“They were two letters for the vote of no confidence, one signed by 3 persons while the other by 2,” he clarified.
He reiterated his stance of awaiting due process and fair treatment, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established protocols and statutory provisions in resolving internal disputes.
Emphasizing the need for adherence to due process, he highlighted the critical role of the General Assembly and the Executive Committee in initiating and deliberating on such motions. “The provision explains the importance of justification and affords the accused party the opportunity to present their defence, ensuring fairness and transparency in the decision-making process.”
Furthermore, Chairman Uba stated that the requirement for a secret ballot further reinforces the commitment to impartiality and confidentiality in determining the fate of the individual or body facing dismissal.
“As the custodians of football governance, the NFF and its affiliated bodies are bound by these statutory provisions, which serve as the cornerstone of organizational accountability and integrity,” he said.
In light of these statutory provisions, Chairman Uba reiterated his assertion of remaining in office, contending that the purported vote of no confidence lacked the procedural rigour prescribed by the NFF Statutes.
“Invoking Article 37 serves as both a legal defence and a reaffirmation of my commitment to upholding the principles of justice and procedural fairness in the face of adversity,” he asserted.
Expressing his commitment to serving the people of his local government, Uba emphasized his determination to fulfil the promises made during his election. “I am still the chairman of the Lafia FA,” he declared firmly, dismissing any attempts to manipulate or oust him from office. His unwavering stance reflects a dedication to the welfare and aspirations of the community he serves.
Undeterred by the allegations levelled against him, Chairman Uba attributed the actions of his detractors to “desperation and greed.” He vowed to persevere in the face of adversity, remaining steadfast in his pursuit of the goals set forth for the benefit of the local footballing fraternity. His resilience underscores a commitment to integrity and principled leadership.
Recall that the executive board members of Lafia Football Association (LAFIA) in two separate letters had on April 27th and May 16th, 2024, passed a vote of no confidence on its Chairman, Honourable Ibrahim Aliyu Uba for innumerable offences ranging from corruption, leaking out the secret of the association to the public, and mismanaging the affairs of the association.
