Accusations of favouritism have overshadowed the start of the women’s Abula event at the 22nd National Sports Festival(NSF 2024) in Ogun State, after Bayelsa head coach Nelson Ebimie criticised match officials for what he described as “blatant bias” during his side’s narrow defeat to the hosts.
Bayelsa fell 2–1 to Ogun State in a tightly fought Group A encounter, losing 16–14, 17–20, 18–20. However, Ebimie believes the result was influenced more by officiating than performance.
“We had a technical meeting before the match and agreed to ensure a free and fair game,” Ebimie said. “But from what I saw, the hosts were clearly favoured. Some calls were so obvious — balls that were clearly in our favour were ruled against us.”
The coach pointed to a crucial moment late in the third set when a ball that appeared to land outside the line was judged in, levelling the score at 15–15. “That call changed the game completely,” he added.
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Despite the disappointment, Bayelsa bounced back strongly in their second match, cruising past Bauchi with a 2–0 win (16–3, 16–6). Ebimie remains hopeful of progressing from the group.
“We’ve lost one and won one — we’re still in it. The table is open, and we just have to win our next game,” he said.
Bayelsa State coach Nelson Ebimie at the 2024 NSF Abula court. Photo Credit: X
Elsewhere in Group A, Ogun State continued their fine form with another dominant display, dispatching Bauchi 16–3, 16–5 to make it two wins from two.
Group B has seen Delta State emerge as early frontrunners, with back-to-back victories over Imo (16–12, 16–13) and Oyo (16–4, 20–18) placing them in a strong position to advance.
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In the men’s division, Rivers State edged Imo in a three-set thriller, coming from behind to win 14–16, 16–9, 16–8. The victory was led by veteran coach Paul Asah, who also coaches Nigeria’s national Abula team.
“Rivers is the father of Abula in Nigeria,” Asah declared. “That’s why I was appointed national coach — I’ve won gold in men’s, women’s, and mixed events.”
Rivers are fielding teams in the men’s and mixed categories this year, and Asah is confident of their chances: “Experience makes the difference. I know what to say to my players in tough moments — that’s why we’ll win gold.”
