The Saki West Local Government Legislative Council convened for a plenary sitting on Wednesday, July 10th, 2024, during which it received and deliberated upon the report of the Committee on Youths and Sports concerning a recent incident of violence at the OYSADA Sport Complex in Saki.
The committee’s investigation centered on an altercation that occurred during a football match organized by Alh. Sulaiman Kanka on Monday, July 1st, 2024. The match, between Sango Football Club and Golden Talent FC Saki, was disrupted when player Wahab Maruf, also known as Adio, of Sango United Football Club, assaulted the match referee, causing significant unrest at the venue.
Key findings from the committee report include:
– Wahab Maruf’s actions, which led to his expulsion from the match due to a series of rule violations culminating in an assault on the referee.
– Allegations that the assault was instigated by Oladayo Sheriff, alias EKO, another player from Sango United FC, who had previously received a red card in a different match.
– The intervention of security forces, including Amotekun and Nigeria Army officers, prevented further escalation of the incident.
Recommendations and Resolutions:
After thorough deliberation, the Saki West Legislative Council unanimously adopted the following recommendations:
1. Support for Sanctions: Endorsement of any sanctions imposed by the Football Association, Saki Branch, against the perpetrators and Sango United Football Club in accordance with Nigeria Football Association/FIFA rules and regulations.
2. Player Bans: Indefinite bans for Wahab Maruf (Adio) and Oladayo Sheriff (EKO) from participating in football activities within the jurisdiction covered by the Saki Football Association/FIFA.
3. Team Disqualification: Automatic disqualification of Sango United Football Club from ongoing and upcoming football competitions.
4. Coach Sanction: Suspension of Teslim Alo, the coach of Sango United FC, from all football-related activities pending further investigations and adjudications.
5. Security Measures: Implementation of enhanced security protocols during football matches to prevent similar incidents in the future.
6. Education Program: Organization of sensitization programs for footballers and coaches across Saki West Local Government to promote adherence to rules and sportsmanship.
In conclusion, the Legislative Council emphasized that its intervention was aimed at maintaining peace and security within the community, especially at public sporting venues like the OYSADA Sport Complex. They reiterated the importance of protecting government-owned facilities and ensuring they serve their intended purposes without disruption.
Additionally, the council observed a minute of silence to honor the late RT. Honourable Prince Akinremi Jagaban, a federal lawmaker representing Ibadan North federal constituency, underscoring their condolences and respect for his service.
