2018 NSF: Bayelsa State Athletes Protest Over Unpaid Bonus

Bayelsa Athletes Protest Over Unpaid Rewards

By Admin

Bayelsa State Athletes who won medals at the 18th National Sports Festival in Abuja last year in Abuja have once again taken to the streets of Yenagoa to protest over their unpaid rewards the Bayelsa State Government months after returning from the event.

The protest which started from the Samson Siasia Stadium to Bayelsa State Treasury House saw the athletes carrying placards with different inscriptions such as “For Nine Months We Have Been Waiting We Can’t Wait Anymore” Our rewards Must Be Paid Today” “A Labourer Worthy His Wages Pay Us” We Can’t Bear The Hunger Any longer” Talk Na Do Governor Do It As You Have Said”

Speaking on the Development an athlete who doubles as a coach in the Sports Council Blessing Onyeali and Mary Ajayi said since they came back from the National Sports festival that they are yet to receive their reward money promised the State Government, adding that they even struggle eat in a day.

A Kick boxers and accompanied coach Mr.Ugutu Andrew and Mary Jack stressed that despite all the sacrifices they made for State that they are yet to fully their promises.

Another,kick boxers Bibian Michael who hails from Burkina faso lamented over the poor treatment she has received since her arrival as a kick boxers who has who medals for the state. stressing  that she want to go back to Burkina faso.

Reacting to the development Commissioner for Sports Development Mr.Perekiye Buruboyefe asked the aggrieved athlete to be patient that something tangible will be done soon.

Team Bayelsa finished 5th in the National Sports Festival a total of thirty two gold, fifty six silver and Forty Nine Bronze medal.