Nigerian boxing legend, Bash Ali, 57, was manhandled by policemen after attempting to see the Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi in Abuja on Thursday June 6th.
According to the Nigerian Telegraph, the boxer, who is seeking to become the oldest man to hold a world boxing title defence, and wants to have his defence staged in Nigeria, jostled to get an audience with President Jonathan, who was at the Abuja National Stadium to inaugurate ‘Rhythm ‘N’ Play on Thursday. Ali scuffled with the president’s aides, which got the attention of Jonathan. After having been allowed to approach the president, and after stating his mission, Jonathan directed that the boxer see the Minister of Sports for further discussion on the matter.
Ali however alleged that when he tried to see Abdullahi at a private luncheon held with celebrities and a few others, he was manhandled by the minister’s aides and denied audience with the minister.
“There is no respect in this country for the people who should be respected,” Ali fumed. “How can I, when all I am trying to do is lift up my country’s name, be assaulted by a bunch of scoundrels all in the name of protecting their master? I was already a world champion when they were in primary school.”
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Mr. Bash did follow protocols? because that is the way it use to be. I know if i want to see you in your office I will be ask to follow protocol
What stupid protocol are you talking about?
@ sport minister mad man
ali should follow protocols ,if u are in such office 2moro ,u wil do d worst.this is d time of security ok
The truth is that Ali should respect himself by seeking audience through official channel instead of those crude ways he is applying.I love ALI and all his boxing exploits,but he should change his present approach in order to realize his ambition of becoming whatever he so wish,THANK YOU.
The way we treat those who have brought honour to this country is bad,no matter what he did not to follow protocol,what the ministers aides did is uncalled for,inhuman and barbaric,….it is a pity we do not value the treasures we have….. i would rather sacrifice my potentials to another country than to a country who does not recognize my efforts………..