History made as Adebola, Bukunmi, Agbelekale win First Ajegunle BSP Scrabble Tournament titles in Lagos

Posted : 25 June 2024

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It was a rare convergence, a gathering of word-lovers from the seasoned veterans to the newcomers, all finding common ground in Ajegunle City, which hosted its first taste of the mind game over the weekend at the inaugural BSP Scrabble Tournament in Lagos.

A distinguished lineup including a former World Champion, the current African King, conquerors from EEAST, the King of the Jungle!, and other 'word-leaders', alongside the captivating 9-year-old Saviour Onazi, who became the face of the 2023 PANASA African Youth Scrabble Championship, ensured that the event matched its historic moment.

Players from 10 states, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, Edo, Delta, Niger, Kogi, Cross River, and Anambra, showcased their skills in the first-ever tournament in Ajegunle. It lived up to expectations with suspense, drama, and emotions.

James Eruje, a local favorite, found himself at Table One until the final round when a sudden twist saw him defeated in a tough duel by eventual champion Samuel Adebola.

The player from Ogun State emerged as the top contender in a fiercely contested competition, securing 10 wins and 2 defeats, tying in points with second-placed Wellington Jighere (+769) and Eruje (+675), but claiming the highest cumulative score of +902 in Class A. He received a cash prize of 250,000 naira.

"This BSP Scrabble Tournament is wonderful! I give all the glory to God for this victory!" exclaimed Adebola moments after his tense victory over a resilient Eruje. "The final round of games was crucial, and I knew I had to secure a strong cumulative score to win the tournament, which is exactly what happened. Emotions run high in the game because we all aim to win, but I believe God favored me today."

"The organization was fantastic! The BSP Scrabble Club did an excellent job!" added the well-traveled Medical Doctor, commending the team for their efforts. "From the hall arrangement to refreshments, they did a magnificent job of bringing it all together. Kudos to them."

Scrabble Amazon Bukunmi Afolayan topped Class B, finishing fourth overall with nine wins and three defeats. Sufyan Boluwatife and Gbadebo Olufemi secured the second and third positions in that category, respectively.

Ibikun Agbelekale was recognized as the best in Class C.

Various prizes, including a scrabble set sponsored by former national champion Olatunde Oduwole, were awarded to deserving players.

Over 102 players participated in the one-day tournament, organized to promote the sport within the vibrant Ajegunle community.

Collin Okafor, President of the charismatic BSP Scrabble Club, expressed satisfaction with the turnout. "The BSP Scrabble Tournament was an amazing event! We didn't anticipate such a high turnout. We did our best, and players and participants alike enjoyed themselves. It was top-notch," he said, visibly pleased.

He went on to explain that he and his team grew up in Ajegunle and, after about 30 years apart, reunited to form the club, now an avenue for giving back to society through the game of scrabble.

"After leaving this area about 30 years ago, we reunited through scrabble. Eight years ago, we formed the BSP Scrabble Club, which has allowed us to connect with our community, individuals, and groups. We believe scrabble can foster societal development. This is a tradition we've begun and hope to continue."

This noble initiative has garnered praise from stakeholders who commend the BSP Scrabble Club for introducing the game to new heights in Ajegunle City.

History made as Adebola, Bukunmi, Agbelekale win First Ajegunle BSP Scrabble Tournament titles in Lagos

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