Ayedun clinches 3rd South-West Scrabble title in Akure
By Tosin Omojola
Grand Master John Ayedun emerged as the champion of the South-West Scrabble Open Tournament held in Akure over the weekend, securing his third title in the competition.
Ayedun defeated Abdulmumin Jimoh 477-390 in a tense final round, edging past his closest rival, Cyril Umebiye, with a cumulative point difference of +81.
Ayedun finished with a +958 cumulative score, placing him ahead of the defending champion, who had +877, and Jimoh, who scored +679. All three players recorded 11 wins and 4 losses over the two-day tournament, with Ayedun claiming the top prize of a trophy and a cash award of 600,000 naira.
In other rankings, notable players including 2022 African champion Enoch Nwali, the new African King Timilehin Doko, Umujose, and Ibukun Faloye each achieved 10 wins and 5 losses. They were separated by varying cumulative points of +1138, +504, +326, and +27, respectively. The tournament remained highly competitive until the end, with players fiercely contesting each round.
Reflecting on his victory, Ayedun expressed surprise and gratitude. “I actually never saw this victory coming,” he remarked with a smile, acknowledging the tough competition posed by two African champions, Enoch Nwali and Timilehin Doko. “Emerging as the winner in such a competitive event is no small feat, and I give God Almighty the glory.”
In the intermediate category, Apiafi Isaac was awarded the title, while Tsola Mabiaku clinched the best Open title. There was also a side-event for children, promoting scrabble among younger players.
Emmanuel Egbele, South-West Coordinator of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), commended the Ondo State Scrabble Board, including Chief Samuel Alagha and Sunshine Scrabble Club Chairman Prince Adeloye Adetomiwa, for hosting what he described as one of the best tournaments in the region.
Egbele, who also organized the Emmanuel Egbele Annual Scrabble Tournament (EEAST), praised his team for their role in the tournament’s success, particularly noting contributions from Tayo Ogunseye, Hakeem Olaribigbe, Omotayo Hamzat, Khaleel Adedeji, Emmanuel Enyi, and Paul Gbadegeshin.
Egbele raised concerns about the sustainability of the tournament, given the impending end of the NSF’s current tenure. “Organizing a tournament of this magnitude requires substantial resources, logistics, and planning,” he said, adding that despite economic challenges, it’s crucial to focus on improving the game and preparing for international competitions, such as the upcoming World Championship in Ghana next year.
Chief Samuel Alagha, Chairman of the Ondo State Scrabble Board, expressed pride in the success of the tournament, noting the high-caliber participation.
“I feel elated that this tournament has surpassed others,” he remarked, commending Mr. Egbele’s dedication and organizational skills, especially with top players like Enoch Nwali, Timilehin Doko, and John Ayedun in attendance.
