By Albert Akota
Things are not going well for Athletes of the Federal Capital Territory at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Abuja.
As a matter of fact,the FCT Athletes are facing very horrible situation in participating at the Nation most celebrated sports fiesta which they are also privileged to be hosting.
Rather than enjoying the benefits of been the host state they have been subjected to the most inhuman treatment that has seen them feed less, thrown out of their hotels and lacking daily upkeep.
Report revealed that it is due to the Secretary of Social development, Barr Amanda Iyabode Pam refusal to release the funds that have been approved for the Games by the Minister, Mohammed Bello and released to her office by the treasury Director
Our further investigation has it that the management of the sports department has totally become frustrated with the situation as every effort to make the woman see reasons have fallen on deaf ear.
It is not known yet why the Social Development Secretary is holding on to the funds while the Athletes compete on empty stomach, more so as the Games is almost gone half way.
The moral of the Athlete has gone so low and this definitely would reduce their chances of winning medals at the Games for the Territory.
You may want to recall that it took several persuasion and pleading before the minister could approve the Festival money, a situation that delayed their entering into close camping ahead of their participation at the Games. And the Secretary who is expected to be in the forefront of fighting for the release of the fund for Athletes is now the one holding on to the released fund.
Attempt to reach her for her explanation was not possible as her aids could not allow us access to her.
