Posted by Samuel on Thu 06th Mar, 2025 - tori.ng
A passionate appeal made available to SaharaReporters on Wednesday evening by a club loyalist and sports journalist highlighted the dire situation.
Players and officials of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), the Oyo State-owned football team, were stranded in Akure, Ondo State, after their team bus broke down several times, SaharaReporters has learned.
The incident, which occurred just 48 hours before a crucial Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match against Katsina United, has sparked outrage among fans and stakeholders, who are now calling on Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently intervene.
A passionate appeal made available to SaharaReporters on Wednesday evening by a club loyalist and sports journalist highlighted the dire situation.
According to the statement, the bus—donated by the Makinde-led administration in 2021—has become unreliable, subjecting players and technical staff to undue hardship.
The statement added that the delay and discomfort could severely impact the team’s performance as they continue their quest for a continental ticket for the first time in over 20 years.
The statement reads: “The Oyo State Government's immediate attention is required to address a critical situation affecting the Shooting Stars. The team's bus, provided by the Engr Seyi Makinde-led administration in 2021, has broken down multiple times, leaving the players and technical crew stranded in Akure, Ondo State.
“This unfortunate incident occurs just 48 hours before a crucial NPFL match against Katsina United, where the team is chasing a continental ticket for the first time in over 20 years. The current condition of the bus not only affects the team's motivation but also poses a significant risk of fatigue, which could hinder their performance.
“As a die-hard 3SC fan, and Sports Journalist, I implore His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde to intervene promptly and provide a reliable transportation solution for the team. While the regular payment of their monthly subvention is appreciated, it is insufficient to guarantee the team's success.
“Time is of the essence. I urge the Oyo State Government to take immediate action to support the Shooting Stars and ensure their safe and successful participation in the NPFL.”