By Samuel Akpan in Abeokuta
The Ogun State Government has condemned the protest staged by some athletes representing the state at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, over delayed allowances.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade on Wednesday, the government expressed its disappointment, stating that the protest was inconsistent with the values and objectives the state upholds.
“The protest earlier today by a few athletes is not only unfortunate but also uncalled for,” Akinmade said.
“It stands in stark contrast to the immense success the state has recorded in hosting the festival—from the grand opening ceremony to the impressive performance of Team Ogun.”
Persecondnews correspondent covering the games reported that the protesting athletes at the Babcock University Games Village, earlier disclosed that they were owed five months’ camp allowances and other bonuses.
The protest was called off at 12:53 pm, and the Handball final, initially scheduled for 9am at the Alake Sport Center in Ijeja, was rescheduled to 4pm.
Akinmade assured that Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to the welfare of all participants at the festival, adding that the payment of allowances had already commenced.
“Those who protested did so in error. It was a clear case of impatience,” he concluded.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the athletes’ welfare, stating that all necessary arrangements had been concluded for the payment of their allowances on Tuesday.
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