Ibrahim Shehu Gusau has assured of a free and fair electoral process in the Athletics Federation of Nigeria elections slated for Monday, 14 June.

Gusau has maintained his claim as AFN president despite the sports ministry dissolving the board of the crisis-ridden federation along with 30 other federations and appointing bitter rival Olamide George as caretaker chairman.

Gusau’s claim to the presidency has been twice upheld by the courts and in a bid to resolve the crisis, World Athletics mandated elections be conducted by 14 June.

The former lawmaker is vying for a second term but promised to not interfere in the electoral process and guaranteed the interests of all contestants will be protected before and during the election.

“Let me assure all participants and contestants in the AFN election that it will be free and fair. The screening and electoral committees have been given a free hand to conduct the electoral process without fear or favour,” Gusau said in a statement.

“AFN is one big family where all genuine stakeholders have a say. If we want to hit the ground running and avoid all unnecessary distractions, everybody must be on board.”

Gusau who doubles as the Confederation of African Athletics Region II President promised more events for home grown athletes to aid their rapid development.

Following the conclusion of the CAA Region II championship, U-20 meet, National trials and Grand Prix in Zaria recently, he promised more local and regional events with a promise to continue prioritising athletes’ welfare.