Operations at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure experienced major disruption after sports officials, athletes, and coaches staged a protest over the appointment of Mrs. Evelyn Lebi as Acting General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council.
The demonstration attracted attention across the state’s sporting community as protesters voiced dissatisfaction with the leadership decision.
Coaches And Athletes Demand New Direction
Participants in the protest argued that the sports sector in Ondo State requires fresh leadership capable of reviving declining standards and restoring competitiveness.
Many demonstrators insisted that the current situation within the council demands someone with stronger technical expertise, administrative vision, and practical understanding of sports development.
Leading voices during the protest included union leaders, coaches, and athletes who maintained that the appointment failed to reflect the expectations of stakeholders.
Union Leaders Voice Strong Opposition
Speaking during the demonstration, Coach Fisayo Bello, who coordinates the AUPCTRE union in the state, reportedly stated that the sports sector cannot afford leadership that lacks innovation and direction.
He explained that stakeholders had previously resisted similar attempts involving Lebi and believed the state deserved a more dynamic candidate capable of transforming the council.
According to Gossip News Now, many protesters argued that Ondo sports had struggled in recent years and urgently needed renewed energy and better administrative management.
Sports Officials Raise Concerns Over Morale
Several sports administrators also expressed fears that the appointment could negatively affect morale among staff members and athletes.
Boxing coach Osifo Moses, who also serves as AUPCTRE vice chairman, reportedly criticized the decision and emphasized the importance of appointing someone who could unite workers and inspire confidence within the system.
Other stakeholders claimed the sports council should prioritize leadership capable of delivering meaningful reforms and better athlete welfare.
Protesters Clarify Position On Governor
While tensions rose during the protest, some officials stressed that the demonstration was not directed at Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa personally.
Joshua Ogunbiyi, chairman of the Ondo State Professional Coaches Association, reportedly acknowledged the governor’s support for sports development while maintaining opposition specifically to Lebi’s appointment.
He further alleged that concerns surrounding her leadership style and administrative competence had surfaced repeatedly during previous considerations for the same role.
Athletes Demand Better Welfare And Growth
Athletes also joined the growing criticism, insisting that the sports sector requires leadership focused on development, welfare, and competitive success.
General Captain of Ondo athletes, Idowu Afun, reportedly appealed to authorities to appoint an individual capable of rebuilding trust and improving opportunities for sportsmen and women across the state.
Many athletes present during the protest argued that poor leadership decisions could continue to hinder progress within various sporting disciplines.
Government Defends Appointment
In response to the protest, Henry Omoyofunmi, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, dismissed the unrest as unnecessary.
The commissioner defended Lebi’s credentials, pointing to her years of experience within the Sports Council and her role as Director of Sports prior to the new appointment.
He explained that the redeployment became necessary after the expiration of the former general manager’s tenure.
Omoyofunmi also suggested that external interests may have contributed to the protest, insisting that the appointment would ultimately benefit sports development in Ondo State.
Debate Highlights Deeper Sports Challenges
The controversy has further exposed longstanding frustrations surrounding sports administration and infrastructure in the state.
Observers believe the protest reflects wider concerns about declining performances, athlete welfare, and management inefficiencies affecting state sports institutions.
Many stakeholders now await further government action while hoping tensions within the sports community can be resolved peacefully.
Commentary And Analysis
The protest at the Akure Sports Complex highlights the growing importance stakeholders place on leadership quality within Nigeria’s sports sector.
For many coaches and athletes, appointments are no longer viewed as ordinary administrative decisions but as choices capable of shaping the future of sports development.
At the same time, the government’s defense of Evelyn Lebi suggests confidence in her experience and ability to stabilize the council.
Whether the controversy fades or escalates may depend largely on how effectively the new leadership addresses concerns around athlete welfare, transparency, and long-term sports growth in Ondo State.
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