By Akeem Busari

The politicking for the exalted office of Delta State Sports Commission, is getting more public attention because of the unsavoury politics by some influential individuals, who are bent on retaining their age long vice-like grip on the fortunes of youth and sports development in the oil-rich state.

And as the public look forward to the appointment of a new Chairman that would direct the affairs of sports in the state for the next four years, Friends  of Nigeria Sports(FNS), a group of genuinely concerned sports stakeholders, have joined other influential personalities, to appeal to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to avoid the selfish influences of the cabal in making the appointment. 

Speaking with sports journalists from his base in Abuja, National Coordinator of FNS, Chief Diprieye Thompson, expressed his concern on the unfortunate situation of sports administration in Delta State.

"Since 1999, I tell you, the likes of Chief Solomon Ogba and his ilks have been dictating the fortunes of sports in Delta State. Delta State is gifted with experienced and properly trained sports technocrats like Davidson Owumi, Austin Popo, Elder Kujuebola, NFF/CAF instructor Edema Fuludu, Clement Temile, Sam Okpodu, Tony Rafua and others. Unfortunately, these godfathers would rather prefer their stooges and cronies. 

"It is a shame that there is no quality or CAF standard Stadium in Delta State. The past governments have allowed these greedy and self-serving politicians to kill sports in the state.

"These people have continued to deceive the past and present Delta State governors by spending millions to attract mercenaries, to win sports festivals. 

"Governor Oborevwori should as a matter utmost importance, appoint a thoroughbred professional, who would help develop sports in the state," Thompson added.