Segun Durojaye, a renowned figure in Nigerian scrabble, showcased his brilliance once again by clinching the title at the Pyramid Scrabble Club Mega Celebration Tournament over the weekend.
Durojaye, often referred to as the “Okocha of Nigerian Scrabble” due to his exceptional skill and creativity, made a dramatic comeback in the final round to secure victory.
Entering the final game of the 10-round tournament, Durojaye found himself trailing early leaders John Ayedun and Hakeem Olaribigbe. However, with a cumulative advantage of +862 points, he surged ahead, outmaneuvering his opponents. His decisive moment came on Table 1, where he faced Olaribigbe.
Durojaye’s winning word, “BROOSES,” earned him the championship and reaffirmed his status as a top player in the circuit.
Durojaye’s reputation for skillful and strategic play has long drawn comparisons to former Super Eagles midfielder Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, known for his flair and ingenuity on the football pitch.
Reflecting on his victory, Durojaye said, “Scrabble is a very funny game. When you least expect the tiles to favor you, it doesn’t. It doesn’t recognize hard work but grace. Hakeem Olaribigbe kept Table 1 under wraps, but I just got lucky and took my chances.”
Despite limited practice time due to work commitments and preparations for his mother’s upcoming burial, Durojaye credited his winning word to last-minute research, which proved pivotal in the tournament.
Olaribigbe finished second with 8 wins and 2 losses (+540 points), while Victor Ewarah claimed third place with the same record but a lower cumulative score (+476 points).
All three top players finished with identical win-loss records, with Durojaye’s superior point difference securing his victory.
Durojaye received a cash prize of 100,000 naira, with additional prizes awarded to the other top finishers.
The event was graced by Engr. Dipo Akanbi, Chairman of the Lagos State Scrabble and Monopoly Association (LASSMA) and a member of the Pyramid Scrabble Club, which was praised for organizing yet another successful tournament.
