Pandemonium erupted during the opening ceremony of the 7th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta State. A gate leading to the main bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium collapsed, injuring a middle-aged woman identified as one of the athletes. She was quickly transported by ambulance to an undisclosed medical facility in the capital city.
Witnesses reported that the victim's condition was beyond the capacity of the clinic stationed at the stadium for the NYG. This incident follows protests by Delta State athletes who had camped for the games, expressing dissatisfaction with poor living conditions, inadequate water and electricity supply, and unhygienic environments.
The young athletes, aged between 10 and 20, accused Tonobok Okowa, the chairman of the state Sports Commission, and officials of neglecting their welfare, particularly in terms of food, water, and electricity. They alleged that contracts for catering and the supply of consumable items in the athletes' camps were awarded to individuals with personal connections, including sisters, wives, relatives, and girlfriends.
This unfortunate incident raises concerns about the safety and well-being of participants in the National Youth Games and highlights the athletes' grievances regarding their living conditions.
