Abandoned Ondo youth and sports centre project raises concerns

Irele, Ondo – A multi-million naira project intended to serve as a Youth and Sports Centre in the Ilutitun/Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency of Ondo State has been abandoned, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.

The project, funded with N43 million and awarded to Bamidele Engineering Nigeria Limited in March 2024, has reportedly seen little progress beyond the construction of a small shed, two goalposts, and a staircase, according to a recent investigation by Tracka, a civic monitoring organization.

The findings, detailed in a post on X by @TrackaNG on Friday reveal that the site, overseen by the Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, New Bussa, remains largely undeveloped.

Local residents are uncertain about the last time work was conducted, with some suggesting the contractor abandoned the site as early as last year, while others point to this year.

However, Tracka’s on-ground assessment highlights a stark discrepancy between the allocated funds and the visible output. The organization noted that no significant work has been done beyond the initial structures, leaving the facility far from operational.

The abandoned site, located in a community that could benefit from enhanced sports and recreational facilities, has raised questions about the management and utilization of public funds.

Tracka has called on the Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, New Bussa the implementing agency to provide a detailed update on the project’s status and a timeline for its completion.

The organization’s report underscores the need for transparency, urging authorities to address the apparent abandonment and ensure the project fulfills its intended purpose of supporting youth development and sports activities in the region.

The abandonment of the Youth and Sports Centre comes at a time when Ondo State’s government, under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged to enhance sports infrastructure and empower youth, as highlighted by recent statements from the state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye.

The contrast between these commitments and the stalled federal project has fueled local discontent, with residents potentially missing out on a vital community resource.