Delta Sports Commission Chairman Stands Firm Against Alleged Blackmail Campaign
Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, has declared he will not yield to any form of blackmail in the execution of his official responsibilities. This statement comes amid swirling accusations that he physically assaulted a kickboxing coach in his office, claims he vehemently denies as a calculated smear campaign.
Allegations of Assault and a Counter-Narrative of Fabrication
Oborevwori, speaking in a recent interview, asserted that certain coaches are being manipulated by a former chairman of the Commission to sow discord among athletes and management staff. This alleged plot is reportedly timed to disrupt preparations for the upcoming 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu. The controversy centers on an incident involving kickboxing coach Steve Momah, who has petitioned government authorities claiming Oborevwori beat him over a financial reimbursement dispute.
"Some people are determined to tarnish my reputation by spreading the false story that I assaulted Coach Momah in my office," Oborevwori stated. "Where would I find the energy to physically attack a kickboxing coach? This is pure blackmail, and I refuse to submit to it."
Oborevwori's Detailed Account of the Office Encounter
Providing his version of events, Oborevwori explained that the Gateway Games in Abeokuta concluded over ten months prior. After leading Delta's victorious contingent, he traveled to Portugal on an international assignment. Upon his return, he focused on securing monetary rewards for athletes and officials, which were successfully disbursed.
He recounted that Coach Momah recently visited his office to request reimbursement for personal transportation costs from Abeokuta to Asaba after the Gateway Games. As Oborevwori inquired about the details, the Acting Director General, Emuobo Egalase, entered the office. Oborevwori then delegated the matter to them for resolution.
"Instead of explaining how he incurred this personal debt, Momah began shouting and pointing fingers at the Acting DG," Oborevwori described. "The situation escalated, and I intervened. Momah did not cease; he started insulting me, using all manner of derogatory names. I was bewildered because, to my knowledge, all transportation and allowance payments for the Gateway Games were settled more than ten months ago."
Fearing for his safety, Oborevwori summoned the Chief Security Officer, who contacted the police. Before their arrival, Momah apologized and pleaded for forgiveness. When the police came, Oborevwori informed them the matter was resolved internally, as Momah was his staff and had apologized.
Claims of a Coordinated Smear Campaign
Oborevwori expressed shock at subsequent messages circulating about the alleged assault. "These are cheap blackmail tactics, and I perceive the hand of a former Sports Commission chairman behind it all," he alleged. "He has been seeking ways to undermine me. I will not succumb. We are a united family, and I will not permit anyone to create divisions, especially with three major events approaching."
Coach Momah's Petition and Conflicting Allegations
In contrast, Coach Steve Momah has formally petitioned multiple government bodies, alleging that Oborevwori beat and threatened him in his Asaba office on March 10, 2026. According to a letter from his legal counsel, Mr. K.C. Chibo of Watchers Chamber, Momah visited to demand repayment of personal funds spent during the 2025 Ogun State Sports Festival.
The petition claims the situation turned violent, with Oborevwori "resorting to beating and rough handling" him. Momah further alleged that one of the chairman's personal aides, referred to as "ONE BELLE," also assaulted him during the incident.
This dispute highlights tensions within the Delta State sports community as it prepares for upcoming competitions, with leadership integrity and internal unity now under public scrutiny.
