Five Ekiti State track and field athletes were released this week after being detained at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti during the buildup to the National Sports Festival. The athletes were initially arrested on Wednesday over allegations concerning their “allegiance” and training arrangements at the facility .
According to sources, the five were held by state sports officials and security personnel pending clarification of their commitment to represent Ekiti at the festival. Three of the athletes were released the same day once they “became sober,” while the remaining two were freed on Thursday following intervention by the Nigeria Labour Congress and local sports stakeholders .
The incident has sparked debate over athlete welfare and due process, with critics arguing that sporting bodies must balance discipline with respect for competitors’ rights. Ekiti’s Sports Commissioner has yet to issue a formal statement, but organisers say they are reviewing internal protocols to prevent similar occurrences ahead of the festival’s opening ceremony.