Athletes representing Kogi State at the ongoing National Sports Festival (NSF) staged a protest on Thursday in Ogun State, demanding the immediate resignation of the State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Monday Anyebe, over unpaid allowances and poor treatment.

The aggrieved athletes gathered at Babcock University Ilisan-Remo, where they are camping, carrying placards with inscriptions such as "Kogi State Commissioner is not a credible Man," "Commissioner must Go," and "Kogi State Sports officials are 911 Scam."

Speaking to journalists on behalf of her colleagues, Vivian Eberechukwu, a table tennis player from Enugu State representing Kogi, alleged that athletes were paid only ₦30,000 instead of the promised ₦70,000 allowance. She further claimed many athletes competed on empty stomachs due to financial constraints.

"We are passing a vote of no confidence on the current Kogi State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Monday Anyebe. Athletes from Kogi State have been suffering since we came for this year's National Sports Festival," Eberechukwu stated.

She also highlighted the state government's failure to provide adequate sports kits and equipment for the athletes, suggesting the establishment of a Sports Commission in Kogi State to address bureaucratic challenges in the sector.

Another protester, Celestina, a boxer representing Kogi State, expressed disappointment over their treatment despite winning medals for the state. She urged the state government to respond promptly to their grievances.

Poor Preparation Blamed for Disappointing Performance

The athletes attributed Kogi State's poor performance at the festival to inadequate preparation and support from sports officials. "This, including poor preparation for this tournament, was the reason behind our poor outing. The Commissioner and his team should resign honourably to save themselves from further disgrace," Eberechukwu added.

Sources revealed that not only athletes but also the coaching crew had not received their allowances as of the time of filing this report. Despite these challenges, three athletes—Taiwo Shukurat, Shomyombo Anuluwapko, and Celestina Edoka—have managed to win bronze medals for Kogi State at the ongoing National Sports Festival.

The Kogi State government is yet to respond to the allegations and demands made by the protesting athletes.