The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has slammed the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led administration over what it described as the “shambolic and exploitative” handling of the ongoing National Sports Festival in the state, accusing the government of sidelining local caterers and mismanaging a rare opportunity to empower citizens.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the PDP State Publicity Secretary, Arc. Otunba Kayode Adebayo, the party expressed outrage over the reported exclusion of over 80 local caterers from providing services for the festival, despite earlier promises by government officials.
Many of the affected caterers, including women and widows, were said to have invested heavily in anticipation of engagement, only to be abruptly replaced by Babcock University.
“This betrayal is not only shameful, it is a slap in the face of hardworking Ogun indigenes,” the PDP said. “Instead of leveraging this multi-billion-naira event to boost the local economy, the APC government has once again chosen cronyism over community.
“How can a state government deny its own citizens the chance to benefit from such a national event and outsource that opportunity to a private institution?”
The opposition party compared the present situation to the 2006 edition of the National Sports Festival hosted under the administration of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, describing that era as a “gold standard” for inclusive planning and citizen empowerment.
“This festival has descended into a disorganized spectacle,” the PDP added. “It should have been a vehicle for economic growth and grassroots involvement. Instead, under the APC, it has become a tool for exclusion and exploitation.”
The PDP also drew parallels with the controversial Kobape Housing Scheme, in which residents allegedly made payments without proper allocation of housing units, describing it as part of a “pattern of deceit” under the current government.
Calling for immediate intervention, the party demanded that Governor Abiodun direct the Local Organising Committee (LOC) to address the concerns of the affected caterers, compensate them adequately, and issue a public apology to the people of Ogun State.
“This administration has again proven its lack of compassion and competence,” the PDP said. “But the good people of Ogun State should remain patient.
“A PDP-led government will restore dignity, accountability, and true economic empowerment.”
The statement urged residents to show hospitality to visiting athletes and officials while remaining hopeful for a political change that prioritizes the welfare of Ogun people.
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