In a dramatic display of discontent, athletes and sports unions in Ondo State brought activities to a halt at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The protest was triggered by the state government's decision to appoint Mrs. Evelyn Lebi as the Acting General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council.
Unions Demand Visionary Leadership, Reject Appointment
The demonstrators, comprising coaches and athletes from various unions, carried placards with strong messages against the appointment. They argued that Mrs. Lebi's appointment would stall sports development in the state at a time when it desperately needed revitalization. The protesters called on the government to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the need for strong and forward-thinking leadership to overcome existing challenges in the sector.
Speaking to the press, Coach Fisayo Bello, the Coordinating Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), was vocal about their demands. He stated that Ondo State sports required "a competent technocrat with passion and vision" to restore its former glory. "We need someone with passion for sports who can take us back to our glorious days, not backwards," Bello declared. He revealed that this was not the first time they had opposed her, saying, "She contested four years ago; we said no then and we are saying no now."
Stakeholders Cite Lack of Competence, Seek Fresh Energy
Echoing these sentiments, Comrade Joshua Ogunbiyi, Chairman of the Ondo State Professional Coaches Association, clarified that their grievance was not with the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whom he described as supportive, but specifically with the appointment. Ogunbiyi stressed that stakeholders had previously raised concerns about Lebi's suitability for the role. "The stage at which we are now, sport is not moving forward. We want somebody, a vibrant and competent general manager, this time around," he said. He was more direct in his criticism, adding, "A person like Lebi has contested for this position for over three times. And we have made government to realise that this woman is not competent."
Government Defends Appointment as Following Due Process
In response to the uproar, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Henry Omoyofunmi, dismissed the protest as unnecessary. He defended Mrs. Lebi's appointment, highlighting her qualifications and extensive experience. Omoyofunmi stated that Lebi is a qualified professional with over 15 years of experience at the Sports Council and is currently serving as the Director of Sports in the Ministry of Youth and Sports. He explained that her appointment followed the standard civil service procedure after the tenure of the former general manager ended, and she was posted to the council by the Head of Service.
The standoff highlights a deep-seated rift between sports stakeholders in Ondo State and the government's administrative decisions, centering on the desired profile for leadership to revive the state's sporting fortunes.
