Boxing: African boxing body, ABU, disbands WABU over numerous offences
By Olaolu Joseph
The African Boxing Union (ABU) has announced the disbandment of the West African Boxing Union (WABU).
The announcement was made during an executive meeting of the ABU in Lagos this week.
The meeting, chaired by ABU President Houcine Houichi, also had in attendance General Secretary Maureen Mulangira and other executive members.
In his address, Houichi stated that, based on several disturbing reports of misconduct by WABU, the ABU had decided to dissolve the body’s activities pending the completion of investigations.
The allegations against the leadership of WABU include blackmail and manipulation, threats and intimidation of stakeholders, illegal activities, financial misappropriation, exploitation of boxers and promoters, and influencing the outcomes of bouts.
Other offenses listed include sabotaging sponsorships, hindering new promoters, spreading false information, excessive tenures, and constitutional violations, among others.
Houichi revealed that the matter had been referred to the ABU’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, which will work with a special task force to further investigate the issue.
“The African Boxing Union is a very reputable body, and it is expected that other affiliated groups uphold the same level of integrity. We have reviewed the serious complaints against WABU’s leadership over the past few months and decided to dissolve its operations temporarily to properly address the issues.”
The ABU president also urged boxing promoters and other stakeholders to disassociate from WABU’s leadership, warning that any activity carried out with the body would be deemed illegal.
“The operations of WABU remain dissolved until every issue surrounding its activities is thoroughly addressed. I urge promoters and stakeholders to suspend any collaboration with WABU, as further activities will breach the ABU’s directive.”
The entire ABU executive committee unanimously upheld the body’s decision regarding WABU.
