Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju on Monday called on President Bola Tinubu to sack the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, following Nigeria’s disappointing outing at the 2024 Paris Olympic games.
Adeyanju also urged Tinubu to probe the ministry’s handling of the Olympics by directing the Permanent Secretary to submit a comprehensive list of everyone who was part of the delegation to the games.
In an open letter to the President, the activist lawyer lamented that Nigeria’s outing at the games was marred by controversies and disqualifications.
The letter reads: “Dear Mr. President, I write to express my and disappointment at the woeful performance of Team Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“This debacle is a direct result of the incompetence of Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, who has consistently showed a lack of preparation and unwillingness to learn from the experiences of those before him.
“On resumption of duty, the Minister had promised a lot but has failed to implement the National Sports Industry Policy, abandoned sports facilities across the country, and demonstrated a lack of understanding of the sports sector.
“The recent Olympics were marred by disqualifications and controversies, including: – Favour Ofilli’s unregistration for the 100m due to a administrative negligence of the LOC appointed by the Minister; – Disqualification of the 4x100m relay team due to crossing the lane, a direct indictment on their level of preparation;- Athlete eligibility issues due to poor documentation and registration;- Accreditation issues for coaches and athletes;- The lack of adequate preparations for our best performing team, D’Tigres, who were not allowed to join the opening parade due to negligence by officials, and forced to travel over eight hours by road for their first match; – Lack of proper equipment for athletes, leading to a team member borrowing a bicycle.
“These incidents highlight the gross incompetence of Nigerian sports officials, who have failed to provide adequate support and resources for our athletes.
“Athlete welfare must be given a primary consideration over the lavishness of LOC officials and friends of the Minister. Mr. President, I urge that you sack the sports minister.
“His incompetence has brought shame to our nation, and his continued presence will only exacerbate the decline of Nigerian sports.
“Furthermore, I urge you to initiate a probe into the ministry’s handling of the Olympics by directing the Permanent Secretary to submit a comprehensive list of everyone who was part of the ministry’s delegation to the Olympics.
“This will help identify those responsible for the failures and ensure accountability. We need a thorough investigation to uncover the rot in the sports ministry and restore Nigerian sports to its former glory.”
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