The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has reaffirmed its decision to dissolve Senior Team Lagos, in what it described as a strategic move to inject fresh energy, discipline, and stronger competitive spirit into the state’s sporting programmes.
Addressing the development, the Director-General of LSSC, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, expressed dismay over the recent protest staged by individuals parading as members of the dissolved team at the Alausa Secretariat, demanding cash rewards for what he described as subpar performances at both the 2020 National Sports Festival and the 2024 edition hosted in Gateway.
“This decision was not taken lightly. It was informed by the underwhelming outcomes of Senior Team Lagos at the National Sports Festival and the need to reposition Lagos sports for excellence,” Fatodu explained. He stressed that the Commission is committed to building a system anchored on merit, hard work, and dedication, adding that the dissolution clears the path for new, talented athletes ready to make Lagos proud.
Clarifying the issue of financial entitlements, the DG explained that festival rewards are discretionary, not automatic, while reaffirming that the government has consistently fulfilled its obligations by paying allowances, providing welfare, and supporting training programmes. He described the protest as misguided, noting that some participants were impostors seeking to mislead the public.
Fatodu further revealed that intelligence reports linked the protest to attempts to distract attention from the state’s plan to celebrate the victorious U-15 Team Lagos, who recently made history by winning a national championship trophy in Asaba.
He condemned the assault on a Commission staff member during the protest, warning that those responsible would be identified and prosecuted. “Those who assaulted our staff will be identified and will face the full wrath of the law,” he declared, reiterating the Commission’s zero tolerance for misconduct, intimidation, or violence.
While assuring that Lagos State will continue to support athletes’ growth and welfare, the DG warned that future attempts to disrupt operations would attract immediate legal action. He emphasized that discipline and due process are non-negotiable for sports development in the state.
“The Lagos State Sports Commission remains resolute in its mission to raise a new generation of disciplined, competitive, and passionate athletes who will make Lagos proud and sustain the state’s tradition of sporting excellence,” Fatodu affirmed.
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