Lagos State Sports Commission Director-General, Lekan Fatodu, has met with the mother of a young Lagos squash athlete over allegations that lapses by two government agencies contributed to her daughter’s disqualification from a competition.
Mrs. Oshodi had appealed to the Lagos State Government in a viral video on Tuesday to strengthen policies against personnel who demand cash payments during emergencies in public health facilities.
She alleged that she was required to pay cash for her daughter, Tanimola’s, treatment at a Lagos general hospital despite having three debit cards and being ready to make a transfer by phone.
Mrs. Oshodi also alleged that an encounter with environmental sanitation officers from Surulere Local Government Area, which she described as extortion, contributed to Tanimola’s disqualification from the Under-15 squash competition.
Following the allegations, the sports commission leadership met with Mrs. Oshodi and her daughter to clarify the circumstances and provide immediate support to the young athlete.
Addressing them, Fatodu assured the family that the commission would engage the relevant government entities to prevent a recurrence and strengthen its response to situations that could disrupt athletes’ participation in competitions. He added that any action that undermines talent development would run counter to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision for youth empowerment through sports.
The DG further disclosed that the commission would consider measures to protect athletes, improve communication with them and their parents, and sensitise ministries, departments and agencies on the need to support emerging sporting talents.
Responding, Mrs. Oshodi, acknowledged the commission’s support for her daughter and other young athletes, and urged it to intensify sensitisation among government institutions.
