*Insists those who assaulted staff must be punished
By Jude Opara, Abuja
The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has reaffirmed that there is no going back on the decision to dissolve Senior Team Lagos.
Director General of the LSSC, Lakan Fatodu said the move was aimed at injecting fresh energy, renewed discipline, and a stronger competitive spirit into the state’s sporting programmes.
Fatodu who was speaking on the development on Wednesday frowned over the recent actions of some members of the Senior Team Lagos, who allegedly staged a protest at Alausa Secretariat, demanding “unmerited cash rewards of their subpar outing” at the 2020 National Sports Festival and their uninspiring showing at the last National Sports Festival, Gateway 2024.
He said; “This decision was not taken lightly. It was informed by the underwhelming outcomes of Senior Team Lagos at the National Sports Festival and the need to reposition Lagos sports for excellence.
“We are committed to building a system that celebrates merit, hard work, and dedication. The dissolution of the team paves the way for new, talented athletes who are ready to give their best and make the state proud on the national stage.”
According to the the Director General, the claim of the athletes for financial rewards for the 2020 and 2024 National Sports Festivals was unfounded, adding that rewards for outstanding performances, are discretionary and not automatic entitlements.
“The government has consistently fulfilled its statutory obligations by paying athletes’ allowances, providing welfare support, funding training programmes, and ensuring upkeep promptly during all competitions.
“It is disheartening that some individuals, including impostors parading themselves as spokespersons of the dissolved team, are attempting to mislead the public. The generosity of Mr. Governor towards Lagos athletes must never be taken for granted or abused. This administration has consistently fulfilled its promises to athletes and often gone beyond what was promised, ensuring prompt payment of allowances and monthly grants”.
Fatodu further revealed that his Commission is aware that the protests were carried out after the Governor announced that he will be hosting the U15 athletes who won the just concluded National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta state.
“The Commission further revealed that intelligence reports indicated the protest was deliberately orchestrated following the announcement by Mr. Governor to host the victorious Under-15 Team Lagos athletes, who recently triumphed in Asaba, claiming the championship trophy for the first time in the state’s history.
“Those behind the assault on the Commission’s staff members during the misguided protest will be identified and made to face the full weight of the law”.
The DG emphasized that while the state government values its athletes and remains committed to supporting their growth and welfare, no grievance justifies resorting to lawlessness.
He warned that future acts of assault, harassment, or attempts to disrupt the operations of the Commission would attract immediate legal action, including arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.
