Protest Erupts at Akure Stadium Over Appointment of Sports Council GM

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

The demonstrators, including sports union leaders, coaches, and athletes, argued that her appointment would not advance the development of sports in the state.

Coach Fisayo Bello, Coordinating Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), described the state of sports in Ondo as “comatose,” emphasizing the need for a competent technocrat to revive it.

“We need someone with a passion for sports who can restore our glory, not take us backward. Lebi contested four years ago, and we opposed her then; we say no again now. We want a technocrat who can bring sports back to its peak,” Bello said.

Osifo Moses, Vice Chairman of AUPCTRE and a boxing coach, echoed this sentiment, insisting the council needed a reputable and committed leader. Joshua Ogunbiyi, Chairman of the Ondo State Professional Coaches Association, clarified that the protest was not directed at Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he praised for his commitment to sports development, but specifically against the choice of Lebi.

Ogunbiyi criticized Lebi’s previous tenure at the council, claiming she had caused tension among staff and that stakeholders had long questioned her competence. “At this point, sports is not moving forward. We want a vibrant and capable general manager who can revive sports development. Lebi has contested for this position multiple times, and we have consistently made the government aware that she is not suitable,” he said.

Idowu Afun, General Captain of Ondo State Athletes, also urged the government to appoint a capable and dynamic leader to head the council.

Responding to the protest, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Omoyofunmi, described the demonstration as “strange” and unjustified. He defended Lebi’s appointment, noting her 15-year tenure at the Sports Council and her current role as Director of Sports in the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

“She was redeployed after the previous general manager’s tenure ended. The Head of Service posted an accounting officer to the council, and there is no reason for this to be challenged,” Omoyofunmi said, adding that the protest appeared influenced by unknown parties. He emphasized that Lebi’s appointment would not impede sporting activities but would instead help reposition the sector.