Despite the significant fund allocated, athletes representing Ogun State have protested over delays in receiving their allowances.
Frustrated athletes representing Ogun State at the ongoing National Sports Festival blocked the Games Village on Wednesday, protesting unpaid allowances. The disruption threw the event into chaos, with athletes locking the entrance at Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, halting movement and competitions. The protest comes despite the state government allocating ₦194 million for its 2024 participation and approving ₦1.455 billion for 2025.
Patrick Omorodion, a senior sports journalist, posted on Facebook: “Six hours on, the Team Ogun athletes are adamant, Babcock University gate is still locked. Athletes are still stranded at the Games Village while officiating officials are still waiting at the various venues.” The protest risks embarrassing Governor Dapo Abiodun, who celebrates his birthday Thursday with President Bola Tinubu expected at the festival’s closing ceremony.
Omorodion added: “If this protest continues, Gov Abiodun’s birthday celebration will not only be marred, President Tinubu may as well stay away.” The athletes’ standoff highlights mismanagement concerns, as funds meant for their welfare remain undelivered despite hefty budget allocations.
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