SEBA Replies Bakare, Questions Security Challenge Argument

By Ikemefuna Asika

The South East Basketball Association (SEBA) has responded to concerns raised by Mr. Ayo Bakare over the relocation of the second phase of the NBBF Premier League Atlantic Conference from Lagos to Enugu, insisting that security challenges should not be used as a basis for singling out any particular state.
In a statement signed by Kennedy Onwunali, Media Manager of the South East Basketball Association, the body acknowledged Bakare’s concerns as a stakeholder in Nigerian basketball but maintained that issues relating to security should be viewed from a broader national perspective.
Onwunali questioned why Enugu was being portrayed as unsuitable to host the competition on security grounds, asking why similar concerns were not raised about other locations hosting sporting events across the country.
“Security challenges are national issues that affect different parts of the country. It is therefore unfair to single out Enugu as though it is the only location facing such realities. The same standard should apply to every state and every sporting venue,” he said.
Onwunali, who also serves as the Southeast Zonal Secretary of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), pointed to recent security incidents in Lagos, including reports of the kidnapping and killing of a senior security officer, arguing that such incidents do not automatically render Lagos unsafe for sporting activities.
“Would anyone conclude from that incident that Lagos is no longer safe or that all activities should be stopped there? The answer is no. Security challenges are a national concern, and the focus should be on strengthening safety measures,” Onwunali added.
Further reacting to the security argument, SEBA questioned the position taken when Ibadan hosted the first phase of the league despite facing its own security concerns.
“If security is the deciding factor, what was the response when Ibadan was selected to host the first phase of the league? Was Ibadan considered unsuitable at the time, or was a different standard applied?” the statement asked.
The association maintained that Enugu possesses the capacity, facilities, and sporting environment required to host the competition successfully. It also highlighted the state’s preparations to host the National Sports Festival, an event expected to attract thousands of athletes, officials, and administrators from across the country.
SEBA further dismissed suggestions that the change of venue was influenced by politics or personal interests, stating that the decision should instead be viewed as part of ongoing efforts to expand basketball development across different regions of Nigeria.
“The growth of Nigerian basketball requires that different regions be given opportunities to host and promote the sport. Expanding beyond traditional locations will help build a stronger basketball culture,” Onwunali said.
The association called on stakeholders to focus on the players, the success of the league, and the unity of Nigerian basketball. It also assured participating teams and officials that Enugu is fully prepared to welcome the basketball community and host a successful competition.