In a dramatic conclusion to the JAMSC Scrabble Championship, African Champion Doko emerged victorious in a nail-biting contest that saw constant reshuffling at the top.
The final day, packed with suspense and surprises, showcased the intense competition that defines Nigeria’s thriving scrabble scene.
Day One leader Joseph Okere, once tipped as the tournament favorite, suffered a stunning collapse after five successive defeats, dropping him out of contention for the top prize.
His fall opened the door for other contenders to rise, and the competition intensified as Abdulmumin Jimoh pushed for points while Ojih stealthily worked his way into the top ranks.
The decisive 18th round brought Doko and Ojih head-to-head in an electrifying battle at Table 1 for the grand prize of ₦750,000. With both players tied at 14 wins, the title came down to cumulative points.
Doko’s tact and experience shone through as he edged out Ojih with a cumulative score of +1077 to +971, solidifying his status as a scrabble powerhouse.
Ojih, who put up a spirited fight, claimed second place and walked away with ₦450,000, while Abdulmumin Jimoh secured third place with a cumulative score of +658, earning ₦350,000. The tournament also rewarded the top 15 players with prizes, emphasizing its inclusive spirit.
The event wasn’t just about the elite competition.
In the Intermediate category, Joseph Okere redeemed his tournament performance by claiming the top spot, with Khaleel Adedeji and Sunday Ituah taking second and third, respectively.
Policeman James Eteng proved his mettle as the Best Opens player, with Isidore Emoavwoyan and Awonusi Peter finishing closely behind. Meanwhile, the Best Veteran title went to Dokun Esan, and Adebisi Adekansi emerged as the Best Female player.
Engr. Ebikeme Adowei, the visionary behind the JAMSC, created the tournament to honor his mother and foster the growth of scrabble in Nigeria.
In his remarks, he lauded the participants and reiterated his commitment to elevating the game.
The President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Olobatoke Aka, praised Adowei for his unwavering support and dedication to the sport.
The tournament attracted a diverse field of players from across the country, including 14-year-old prodigy Sophia Ekeruche, showcasing the depth of talent and potential within Nigerian scrabble.
With live streaming of matches to a global audience, the JAMSC Scrabble Championship highlighted not only the fierce competition but also the unyielding passion for a game that continues to captivate minds across the nation.