Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebnji, has apologised to the state’s athletes at the just-concluded 2023 National Youths Games in Asaba, Delta State over the shabby manner they were treated by the Ekiti State Sports Council officials.
The Governor, who spoke in Ado Ekiti during a reception for the athletes on Wednesday evening, said the incident had strengthened the state government’s resolve to develop sports, and assured the youngsters and their coaches of financial rewards.
Oyebanji said the officials embarrassed the athletes, their parents, Ekiti people at home and abroad and the state generally.
The athletes, described as “Great Ekiti Ambassadors,” won a total of seven medals — two gold, two silver and three bronze — at the Games.
Ekiti athletes were kitted in all sorts of unbefitting wears during the march past for the opening of the games in what has been described as an embarrassing situation which went viral and attracted criticisms.
Addressing the athletes, Oyebanji said, “Let me start on the note of apology to you for the indiscretion and the inappropriate behaviour of the officials of the sports council.
“As a government, we tried our best to provide for you, but the officials, for reasons best known to them, decided to act inappropriately. As a government, I accept responsibility for this, not because I support those that decided to act in ways and manners that have brought embarrassment to you and to all Ekiti indigenes all over the world, but as the Governor of Ekiti State.
