The Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Henry Omoyofunmi, has appealed to protesting sports unions, coaches and athletes to embrace dialogue and unity following a protest at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.
The protest, which briefly disrupted activities at the complex, was staged by sports union leaders, coaches and athletes over the appointment of Mrs Evelyn Lebi as Acting General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council.
Addressing the matter at a meeting with the management of the Sports Council, Omoyofunmi said that while grievances were legitimate in a democratic society, the grounding of activities at the complex was unacceptable.
He said the protest was largely a result of misinformation and inadequate engagement, adding that consultations with critical stakeholders had since been held to address the concerns raised.
According to him, the consultations produced a common understanding, with stakeholders now united and committed to driving Gov. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s sports development agenda under the leadership of Lebi.
The commissioner also highlighted the governor’s investments in sports infrastructure and grassroots development, describing the administration’s commitment to sports as unprecedented.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Mr Allen Sowore, urged stakeholders in the ministry to complement the governor’s investments with cooperation, discipline and collective responsibility to ensure sustainable sports development in the state.
Credit To Isaac Afolabi.