Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, the Governor of Ekiti State, issued a public apology to the state’s contingent who participated in the recently concluded National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
The governor expressed regret over the contingent’s subpar appearance during the opening ceremony of the games.
During a meeting with the athletes, who had performed commendably by securing two gold, two silver, and three bronze medals, Governor Oyebanji praised them for representing Ekiti State with distinction.
He stated, “I apologize for the inappropriate behavior of the officials of the council. As a government, we tried to provide for you, but the officials behaved inappropriately for reasons best known to them. As a government, we take responsibility. I apologize to all Ekiti people, to you, and to your parents. I am deeply sorry. I can assure you that justice will be served appropriately.”
Governor Oyebanji revealed that he had received over 1000 messages of concern when the controversy regarding the contingent’s kitting in Asaba arose. He expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Finance, Akin Oyebode, and a Special Assistant, Mary Oso, for their swift intervention.
The governor indicated that, in accordance with civil service regulations, he had instructed the Head of Service to initiate necessary actions to hold accountable anyone involved in the “show of shame” during the games, with the aim of deterring such behaviour in the future.
Oyebanji also pledged to prioritise sports development in the state, stating, “We are going to pay special attention to sports, and the vehicle we are going to use is the sports commission. By next year, we are going to have a functional indoor sports center. We will work on our stadia, starting from the Ado-Ekiti stadium. The emphasis will not be on football alone, but we will go through the value chain.”
