Stakeholders Unite To End Illegal Football Events In Ogun State

By Yusuf Olatunji 

Due to complaints from different quarters bordering on extortion, violence, disruption of government and private properties among others, the Ogun State Football Association says it's henceforth a must for organizers of football events to notify and seek approval from the Football ruling body in the state.

At an emergency meeting of concerned stakeholders in ABEOKUTA on Tuesday, the Ogun FA leadership said stiffer measures will now be enforced on individuals, groups, associations or companies who host football tournaments in the state without going through the right channels.

The Chairman of Ogun State Football Association, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi made it known that the decision has become imperative due to several unfortunate reports about how people are being extorted in the name of scouting, and how football events has led to the disruption of peace and orderliness in different areas of the state.

He said "This step has become necessary, all stakeholders will be involved as we aim to put an end to this menace, it's deeper that what we initially thought it was"

He further "We are working directly with the Ogun State Sports Council & Ministry of Youth and Sports being our supervisory ministry, the Police and other security agencies to forestall future incidences "

"We also love it when we have football activities across the state, but let's all come together and get it done appropriately"

Alhaji Majekodunmi advised young football players, parents and guardians, as well as sponsors to fact check before transacting with anyone claiming to be a football scout or coach. He concluded.

Meanwhile, the Referees council in the state headed by Mr. Bosun Obayemi and the Coaches Association are to ensure that their members do not take part in football events that are not approved by the Ogun State Football Association.

In attendance at the meeting were the  Sixteen (16) Chairmen of  affiliated Local Football Councils and Secretaries ,Ogun State Referees council Chairman Mr. Bosun Obayemi and Secretary of the Referees body,  representative of the Ogun State Coaches Association, Secretary of the Ogun FA, Elder Victor Idowu, representative of the Police, NSCDC among others.