By: Anjolaoluwa Faromo
The Literary and Debating Society, University of Ibadan (TLDS’ UI), has responded to the controversial withdrawal of Alexander Brown Hall (ABH) Literary and Debating Society from the ongoing 2024 edition of Jaw War: Rise of Legends.
The ABH constituency had earlier announced its decision to pull out of the prestigious inter-hall and inter-faculty debating competition, citing dissatisfaction with the judging process, lack of transparency, and organizational shortcomings.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, the TLDS dismissed allegations of bias and impropriety, affirming its commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial competition. According to the society, the selection and reshuffling of judges were conducted with transparency, involving Senators from all constituencies.
“The determination of winners, grading, and evaluation of speakers remain the sole responsibility of the judges, whose independence is paramount,” the TLDS stated, adding that the integrity of Jaw War must be upheld.
A major point of contention for ABH was the refusal of TLDS to make judges’ score sheets publicly accessible. Reacting to this, the TLDS maintained that disclosing the score sheets could expose judges to undue pressure and threats. The society revealed that judges have been victims of attacks in the past involving some constituencies and it is the more reason it ‘non-disclosure policy’ remains for now.
“Revealing the score sheets would compromise the integrity of our beloved competition. While we are open to exploring frameworks for enhanced transparency in the future, our stance on the non-disclosure of judges’ score sheets remains unchanged,” the statement read.
The TLDS also addressed accusations against the competition’s timekeeper, describing them as unfounded and baseless. “The timekeeper adhered strictly to the timing schedule, and any allegations of errors are without merit,” the society stated, calling on ABH to provide evidence if they have any.
The society further criticized the informal manner in which ABH lodged its complaints, describing it as unprofessional. According to the TLDS, complaints should follow established protocols rather than being directed at executive members in casual conversations.
While expressing openness to negotiations with ABH, the TLDS noted that the withdrawal of the constituency would not disrupt the competition. They encouraged all other constituencies to maintain the spirit of sportsmanship, emphasizing their commitment to fair competition.
However, TLDS made it clear that the withdrawal of the faculties of Dentistry and Clinical Sciences (which ABHLDS represents) from the faculty category would not exempt them from the consequences of their absence in the competition.
In conclusion, the TLDS expressed regret over the decision of ABH to withdraw but stressed that the competition must continue. “We remain committed to ensuring an absolutely fair competition and urge all participating constituencies to carry on in good spirit,” the statement read.
