Joel Ajayi
Investigations have uncovered the truth behind the persistent and unfounded allegations made by veteran boxer Bash Ali against the former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, the Legal Director of the Sports Commission, and the Federal Government of Nigeria regarding his long-proposed Guinness World Record boxing bout.
For over 19 years, Bash Ali has pushed for the fight to take place. Yet, across the administrations of four Presidents and five Sports Ministers, his proposal has consistently failed to receive official approval or endorsement — a clear indication of ongoing concerns about its legitimacy and feasibility.
Among the sensational claims made by Ali is the allegation of a $12 million payment to a former Chief of Staff to a President (not under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu), as well as a supposed N13 million extortion attempt.
However, investigations have found no credible evidence to support any of these claims.
Contrary to Ali’s narrative, it was revealed that the former Minister sought and received the consent of the then-President before making any decisions concerning the fight. At no point did the Minister act in bad faith or work against Ali’s plans.
Given the gravity of the accusations and the absence of evidence, it is now time Nigerians demand concrete proof from Bash Ali rather than allow him to malign the reputations of credible public officials with baseless allegations and blackmail tactics.
Notably, on October 27, 2021, the former Minister filed a defamation lawsuit against Bash Ali. Through his legal representation, Festus Keyamo Chambers, an interlocutory application (Motion No. M/7145/2021) was submitted to the court, seeking an order restraining Ali from making further defamatory statements until the matter is resolved.
Justice C. Agbaza granted the requested reliefs, legally barring Bash Ali from any further public defamation of the Minister. Festus Ukpe, Esq., of Festus Keyamo Chambers, confirmed that under Nigerian law, any continued defamatory or denigrating publication by Bash Ali would be considered contempt of court — a punishable criminal offense.
Despite the standing court order, Bash Ali has repeatedly violated the ruling by holding press conferences, granting interviews, and making further defamatory statements, all aimed at tarnishing the image of the former Minister.
These actions represent not only a blatant disregard for judicial authority but also a direct affront to the integrity of public office and the principles of due process.
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