We are poise to take Taekwondo to the next level – Ashiru
By; Ayo Ojedokun, Lagos.
The present leadership of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation led by Grand Master George Ashiru said their Primary objective is to take Nigeria taekwondo to the next level by developing the sports beyond its present level in Nigeria and Africa.
President of the Federation, George Ashiru who also doubles as Vice President of the Commonwealth Taekwondo Union, made this clarification while reacting to the accusation of abuse of some of their athletes during the camping exercise of the 2015 All Africa Games in Congo Brazzaville.
He noted that the clarification become necessary, so as to prove that the athletes are integral part of the taekwondo family and are never at anytime relegated to the background which prompted the Federation to swing into action immediately a formal petition was received by the board.
“My attention has been drawn to several media reports bordering on athletes’ abuse issues during the All Africa Games camp.
“I would like to state categorically that, taekwondo family is one unified body and has progressed tremendously in the past few years. Our sport has grown in leaps and bounds by the positive actions of all members of the family at every level.
“Like all organizations and groups, we also have a few misunderstanding; both serious and less than serious issues to deal with. All such issues have been receiving the required attention by the appropriate organs of the NTF and the Board itself which also includes allegations referenced in an atmosphere of fairness and due diligence to all concerned.”
Ashiru concluded by saying that the goal of the board is to ensure that they maintain the integrity of the sport and camaraderie of members in an atmosphere of peace, justice and equity even as he appealed for calm, patience, and understanding by the taekwondo family.
