Athletes representing Ogun State at the ongoing National Youth Games in Delta State have cried out over what they described as inhumane treatment after being left without accommodation, forcing many of them to sleep in the open under the rain.
Some of the athletes and officials, who spoke with PLATFORM TIMES, expressed frustration that despite travelling long distances to represent the state, they were abandoned without access to basic necessities such as water, electricity, and proper shelter.
Since arriving at the Games village on Friday, the Ogun contingent — comprising athletes, coaches, medical personnel, and security officials — said they had been left stranded.
“It is with deep concern and disappointment that we bring to the public the distressing situation we are facing here in Delta.
“We arrived yesterday, and since then, no proper arrangements have been made for our accommodation. Our athletes have been forced to sleep outside in the open, exposed to rain,” one of the officials lamented.
Another official added that the situation was worsened by the absence of water and electricity.
“These young athletes, who should be treated with dignity, have had to endure the indignity of sleeping on bare ground with no water to bathe or drink, and no light for their safety.
“This poses serious risks to their health, wellbeing, and performance,” the source said.
They accused officials responsible for logistics and welfare of repeatedly failing in their duties despite the government’s investment in sports development.
“It is painful to ask: Are we going to sleep outside again today? Must Ogun athletes and officials suffer this humiliation at every festival and sporting event?” one coach queried.
The athletes and their handlers appealed to the Ogun State Government, sports administrators, and stakeholders to urgently intervene, provide immediate relief, and ensure long-term solutions to prevent future embarrassment.
“Our athletes deserve better. They are the pride of Ogun State, and they should be celebrated, not neglected. If this continues, it will discourage youth participation in sports and kill morale,” the team representatives stressed.
The Ogun contingent urged the government to hold accountable those behind the “repeated lapses” and put in place a sustainable welfare framework for athletes representing the state at national competitions.
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