…Warns Impostors Parading as Lagos Athletes
By Andrew Abah
The Lagos State Sports Commission has reaffirmed its decision to dissolve Senior Team Lagos, a move aimed at injecting fresh energy, renewed discipline, and a stronger competitive spirit into the state’s sporting programs.
Speaking on the development, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu expressed dismay over the recent actions of some purported members of the Senior Team Lagos, who staged a protest at Alausa Secretariat, demanding unmerited cash rewards of their outing at the 2020 National Sports Festival and their uninspiring showing at the last National Sports Festival, Gateway 2024.
“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,” the Director General stated.
“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.”
The Commission clarified that the athletes’ claim for financial rewards for the 2020 and 2024 National Sports Festivals was unfounded. Rewards for outstanding performances, the Commission explained, 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,” the Director General emphasized.
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.
Reiterating the state’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, violence, or intimidation, the Director General assured the public that those behind the assault on the Commission’s staff member 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.
According to him, discipline and respect for due process are essential for the development of sports in Lagos State, and the Commission will not hesitate to enforce them.
The Commission remains resolute in its mission to raise a new generation of disciplined, competitive, and passionate athletes who will make Lagos proud and continue the state’s tradition of sporting excellence.
