By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Athletes representing Lagos State have openly rejected recent comments credited to the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, describing his remarks as false, unfounded, and insulting to their sacrifices.
In a statement jointly signed by their elected representatives — General Captain Olowolayemo Adewale Sikiru, Vice Captain Opeoluwa, Secretary Hassan Rasheedat, Welfare Officer Hakeem, and Public Relations Officer Blessing — the athletes accused the DG of incompetence, bullying, and showing disdain for sportsmen and women under his leadership.
Contrary to Mr. Fatodu’s claim that impostors were parading as Team Lagos members, the athletes insisted they are duly registered with the state and have remained loyal despite tempting offers from other states. They noted that their leadership was properly elected and sworn in by Sports Commission officials, with pictures and videos to back their legitimacy.
Reacting to Fatodu’s alleged description of their performance as “subpar,” the athletes said he lacked the moral standing to make such remarks. “He has never in his life represented Lagos in any competition, worn the Team Lagos jersey, endured long hours of travel for national events, stayed in mosquito-infested camps, eaten poorly prepared food, or shed sweat on the field of play. He does not know what it means to be an athlete,” their statement read.
They further accused the DG of worsening the decline of sports in Lagos, saying his tenure has brought “pain and agony” instead of growth and development.
Concluding, the athletes reaffirmed their vote of no confidence in Mr. Fatodu and categorically rejected him as Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission.