There are indications that all may not be well in Osun State over the preparations for the National Youth Games slated for September 9 to 19, 2024
This is as rumours that the athletes who will represent the state are preparing for a showdown with the state Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi who also doubles as the Commissioner for Sports.
It was gathered that a massive protest in the coming days by the staff of the Osun State Sports Council is in the offing over allegations of sabotage by Adewusi.
The staff alleged that towards the preparation for the games, funds were yet to be released to the sports council from the Office of the Deputy Governor who is also the coordinating Commissioner for Sports in the state.
An anonymous source in the council revealed that a file detailing expenses for the competition has been forwarded to the Deputy Governor but was yet to be received by Governor Ademola Adeleke for approval.
While revealing that Adewusi has complained that the state does not have enough funds to promote sports, the source called for the intervention of the state governor warning that Adewusi’s actions may cripple sports development in the state.
However, reacting to the allegations, the General Manager, Osun State Sports Council, Rotimi Dumoye in a statement on Monday described the Deputy Governor as a tireless advocate for the growth and transformation of sports.
Dumoye said Adewusi has fully aligned with Governor Ademola Adeleke’s agenda for sports sector reform and his leadership has resulted in several groundbreaking initiatives.
On the allegation of fund reductions, Dumoye said it was necessary to adjust given the financial realities in the state.
The reduction in allowances mentioned in the article was a necessary adjustment given the state’s financial realities.
“These adjustments were made to accommodate a larger number of athletes and officials participating in national competitions. It is important to note that the contingent representing Osun at the National Youth Games has increased in number compared to previous years.
”The government’s priority is to encourage as many athletes as possible to participate and showcase their talents on national platforms. Painfully, the officials are at the receiving end of the financial adjustments, but this was done to avoid dropping any athletes or officials from participation.”
Addressing specific claims of sports neglect, Dumoye rejected the claim that the Deputy Governor is focusing solely on table tennis.
He said he is supporting multiple sports disciplines being developed under this administration.
“His support for grassroots and lesser-recognized sports, like handball, hockey, and volleyball, contradicts the narrative that other sports are being ignored.
“The steps taken thus far have laid a strong foundation for a future where Osun will not only produce world-class athletes but also set the standard for sports development across Nigeria.”
He said the allegations only serve to mislead the public and undermine the significant efforts being made to transform sports in Osun State.
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