A cloud of controversy, as noticed by The Guardian, has surrounded the just-concluded 9th National Youth Games (NYG), as coaches and team officials still criticized what they described as blatant and biased officiating throughout the event.

Several coaches, led by the Director of Taraba State Sports Council, George Shitta, expressed disappointment over the alleged manipulation of results and favouritism by officiating officials, particularly in favor of the host state, Delta.
Speaking to journalists, Shitta accused the officials of robbing Taraba athletes of medals in key events, including chess and kickboxing.

“The National Youth Games is becoming a different ball game. It’s very unfortunate for sports development in Nigeria. The officiating has become an albatross. We are witnessing outrageous officiating that threatens the integrity of the competition,” he lamented.

Shitta further alleged that some officials were openly biased, which, if not urgently addressed, could undermine the objectives of the annual youth competition.
Other coaches echoed similar concerns, accusing umpires and referees of disregarding the official rules and showing clear partiality.

They claimed that such actions not only affected the fairness of the games but also demoralized young athletes who had trained hard to represent their states.

“We were robbed of our medals,” one coach said. “If this is allowed to continue, it will kill the morale of these young athletes and defeat the purpose of the games.”
In addition to poor officiating, the coaches also raised concerns about the alleged fielding of over-aged athletes by some states. They argued that the inclusion of older participants goes against the spirit and intent of the youth-focused event.
Athletes who claimed they were denied rightful medals have called on the relevant authorities to investigate the matter and take disciplinary action against the officials involved.

“The future of Nigerian sports depends on fair play,” one affected athlete said. “We urge the authorities to act now before it’s too late.”

The National Youth Games, designed to identify and develop grassroots talent, may now face credibility challenges if these allegations are not thoroughly investigated and addressed.