In a dramatic turn of events at the ongoing Gateway Games 2024, protesting Ogun State athletes have brought activities to a halt by blocking the entrance and exit of the Games Village at Babcock University, Ilisan Remo.
The athletes say they have been left with no choice but to disrupt the final stretch of the multi-sport event to demand justice from the Ogun State Government over unfulfilled promises and unpaid allowances.
The protest, which began early Wednesday morning, saw dozens of aggrieved athletes occupying the main gates of the university, effectively preventing teams and officials from entering or leaving the venue.
Chants of “Pay us our dues!” and placards reading “Dapo Abiodun, honour your word” filled the air as tension mounted ahead of the final day of the Games.
According to the protesting athletes, they were each paid ₦78,000 as camp allowance for a two-week period.
However, many allege they remained in camp for as long as one month without receiving additional stipends. They were also promised 10,000-naira daily bonuses but 11 days after the competition as started nothing has been paid to the athletes.
More pointedly, the athletes are expressing outrage over a promised instant competition bonus of ₦50,000, an incentive announced by Governor Dapo Abiodun himself which was to be paid within 24 hours of competing.
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As of today, no athlete has received the bonus, further fueling frustration among the ranks.
Mr Abiodun also pledged ₦2.5 million for every gold medal, ₦1.5 million for silver, and ₦1 million for bronze won by Ogun athletes at the Gateway Games 2024,
But perhaps the most contentious issue is the alleged breach of contract by the Ogun State Government. Several athletes told Athletic NG and Prime Sports Radio, Enugu that they were offered a one-year contract promising a monthly salary of ₦100,000.
Ogun Athletes sitting in front of the Babcock University Gate. Photo Credit: Athletic Images
However, just weeks later, a revised contract was presented, reducing the monthly figure to ₦75,000 and slashing the duration to just five months.
“We all refused to sign the new deal,” said one athlete, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of victimization.
“It’s not just about the money. It’s about respect and integrity. They made a promise, and now they’re trying to backtrack.”
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As the Games wind down on Thursday, the athletes say their actions are a last resort to draw attention to their plight. By halting the movement of teams and stalling competitions, they hope their message will reach Governor Abiodun directly.
Long line of buses waiting to leave the games Village. Photo Credit: Athletic Images
“This is not the kind of legacy the Gateway Games should leave,” We have competed, trained, and given our best for Ogun State. All we are asking is to be treated fairly another athlete lamented”
There has been no official response from the Ogun State Ministry of Sports or the Local Organising Committee (LOC) as of the time of filing this report.
However, Main Organizing Committee security personnel spoke to our correspondent Mmenyeneabasi Akpan that he is reviewing the situation.
