Elegbeleye credits Akeredolu, Udi, players for Sunshine Stars' survival

By Akeem Lawal 

Chairman of the Interim Management Committee of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA), Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye says the board has accomplished its mandate of ensuring that Sunshine Stars avoided relegation at the end of just concluded Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.


Elegbeleye-led management attributed the safety feat achieved by the team to Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu's penchant for service delivery.

The Akure landlords edged Remo Stars 1-0 in a Southwest derby at the Gateway Stadium, Shagamu to end the season well above the drop zone, finishing 10th on the log with 54 points, and Elegbeleye was full of praises for the Governor while reflecting on the journey to safety. 

"The governor shortly after assuming office found the team in a precarious situation and he swung to action by constituting our committee for a rescue mission. When we took over the team was placed 19th, practically at the bottom given Rivers United four outstanding matches at the time and now to God be the glory we avoid relegation.

Sunshine Stars line-up against Remo Stars 

"This feat is a taste of Aketi's commitment to service delivery and this also prove the Governor is result oriented. We are grateful to the governor for his huge support and commitment. Thanks to Duke Udi, the players and other officials for their hard work towards the goal. 

"My assignment is over now but I will be supporting from the background. The assignment given to my committee by the governor was to paddle Sunshine Stars, Queens out of relegation and sanitise the Agency and I feel great we have accomplished these,” Elegbeleye disclosed after the game.

Tunde Ogunja

Also during an interview member of the Interim Committee of ODSFA, Tunde Ogunja shared the sentiments of the former Director General of the National Sports Commission while Ondo new Sports Commissioner, Saka Yusuf Ogunleye who was also on ground for the game on Saturday commended the Elegbeleye led management for a job well done.

Saka Yusuf

Saka Yusuf stated: "I am a lucky man; this is my second outing with Sunshine Stars and it is another victory. I thank Governor Akeredolu for rescuing the team through the Elegbeleye led management. The committee have done a great job and we are still looking forward to winning the FA (AITEO) Cup. The people should expect rapid sports development under this new government."