By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The has invited Nigerian World Cruiserweight Boxing Champion, , following a petition reportedly written against him by former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, .
According to a police invitation letter dated February 11, 2026, Ali, whose real name is Bashiru Ali, is expected to report to the National Cybercrime Centre of the Nigeria Police Force on February 26, 2026. The letter, which was sighted by our correspondent, indicated that the invitation is in connection with a petition filed against him.
The development has generated mixed reactions in parts of the media space, with some commentators questioning the circumstances surrounding the petition.
In a February 12, 2026 publication, Harry Agina, writing on a socio-political and sports blog, described the petition as “ridiculous,” alleging that it was initiated by a long-standing adversary of the boxer.
Agina recounted Ali’s long-standing quest, which began in 1996, to secure a Guinness World Record fight as the oldest boxer to enter the ring to defend his title, claiming that the journey has been marked by prolonged struggles with successive administrations.
He further alleged that the police invitation was issued at the instance of the former minister, though official details of the petition were not disclosed in the letter.
The invitation directs Ali to appear at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), Panti, Yaba, Lagos State, for questioning.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the police authorities nor Sunday Dare had publicly responded to the allegations surrounding the petition.
