PROTEST HITS ONDO SPORTS COMPLEX OVER ACTING GM APPOINTMENT

Tensions ran high at the Ondo State Sports Complex on Tuesday as sports officials, coaches, and athletes staged a protest against the appointment of Mrs. Evelyn Lebi as Acting General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council.

The protesters argued that the move would not advance sports development in the state, calling instead for a more experienced and visionary leader.

Coach Fisayo Bello, Coordinating Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), said the state’s sports sector was in decline and required a competent technocrat to restore its glory.

“We need a leader with real passion and capacity to grow sports. Four years ago, we opposed this appointment, and our stance remains unchanged,” Bello said.

Similarly, Osifo Moses, Vice Chairman of AUPCTRE in Ondo State, emphasized the need for a credible and committed individual to reposition sports in the state. Joshua Ogunbiyi, Chairman of the Ondo State Professional Coaches Association, clarified that the protest was not aimed at Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he praised for his support for sports, but at Lebi’s selection.

Ogunbiyi noted that Lebi’s previous tenure at the council had reportedly caused tension among staff and raised doubts about her suitability for the role.

“Sports in Ondo is stagnating. We need a vibrant and capable general manager to revive the sector,” he said.

The General Captain of Ondo State Athletes, Idowu Afun, also appealed for a capable and energetic appointment to improve athletes’ welfare and performance.

Responding, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Omoyofunmi, defended Lebi, describing her as a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in the Sports Council. He said her appointment followed proper civil service procedures and was in line with the expiration of the former general manager’s tenure.

“Lebi’s appointment is legitimate and aimed at repositioning sports in the state. There is no reason for this protest,” Omoyofunmi said, hinting that external influences might have fueled the demonstration.