Protest Halts Activities at Akure Sports Complex Over Lebi Appointment

Protest Halts Activities at Akure Sports Complex Over Lebi Appointment
Unions and athletes demand competent leadership for sports revival
Commissioner defends appointment, dismisses protest as unjustified

Sporting activities were disrupted on Tuesday at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure as stakeholders protested the appointment of Mrs Evelyn Lebi as Acting General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the protesters, made up of sports union leaders, coaches and athletes, argued that the appointment would not improve sports development in the state, which they described as struggling.

Leading the protest, Coordinating Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, Coach Fisayo Bello, said sports in Ondo State were in a comatose state and required urgent intervention by a competent technocrat.

According to Bello, the state needed a leader with passion, technical expertise and a clear vision to restore sports development.

“We need someone with passion for sports who can take us back to our glorious days, not backwards. Lebi contested four years ago, we said no, and we are saying no now,” he said.

The Vice Chairman of the union and boxing coach, Osifo Moses, also criticised the appointment, saying the Sports Council deserved a more reputable and committed leader capable of rebuilding confidence among athletes and officials.

Chairman of the Ondo State Professional Coaches Association, Joshua Ogunbiyi, said the protest was not directed at Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he described as supportive of sports, but at the choice of Lebi.

Ogunbiyi alleged that Lebi’s previous tenure at the council created tension among staff, adding that concerns about her competence had been raised repeatedly.

“We are not against the governor appointing anyone he believes can revive sports, but Lebi is not one of them,” he said.

Athletes’ General Captain, Idowu Afun, urged the government to appoint a credible and energetic leader who would prioritise athlete welfare and development.

Protest Halts Activities at Akure Sports

Reacting, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Omoyofunmi, described the protest as unjustified. He defended Lebi’s appointment, noting her over 15 years of service and current role as Director of Sports, adding that the government remained committed to strengthening sports in the state.