Tension broke out on Wednesday morning at the 2024 Gateway Games as athletes from Ogun State staged a protest over unpaid allowances, grounding activities at the games camp inside Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo.
The protest began as early as 5:00am, with angry athletes blocking the main entrance of the university, which serves as the accommodation camp for all participants in the ongoing sports festival. Their actions disrupted the movement of vehicles in and out of the premises, leaving many athletes and officials from other states stranded.
The protesting athletes demanded immediate payment of their allowances, claiming they had not received any financial support since the beginning of the games. Some expressed frustration over the poor welfare conditions and accused the state of failing to fulfill promises made before the commencement of the competition.
An eyewitness told our correspondent that many athletes from other states who are also facing similar welfare challenges have quietly shown support for the Ogun athletes’ action but are yet to join the protest publicly.
“This protest is long overdue. We are competing, training, and risking injury, but we have not been paid or properly taken care of. It is unfair,” one Ogun athlete, who pleaded anonymity, said.
As at the time of filing this report, the protest was still ongoing, and efforts by security personnel and games officials to calm the situation were unsuccessful.
The incident has raised concerns about the organisation and welfare structure of the Gateway Games, which is designed to promote grassroots sports development in Ogun State and provide a platform for athletes to showcase their talents.
The Gateway Games is a state-organised multi-sport event bringing together athletes from across Nigeria to compete in various sports. It is regarded as a key part of Ogun State’s efforts to build a vibrant sports sector.
Meanwhile, no official statement has been released by the Ogun State Sports Council or the Local Organising Committee regarding the protest or how the issue will be addressed.
Observers say the protest could damage the reputation of the games if not urgently resolved and could discourage participation in future editions.
The affected athletes are urging Governor Dapo Abiodun and relevant authorities to intervene quickly to avoid further disruption of the competition.
