OBIDEYI DONATES CASH TO INJURED CROWN FC DRIVER, APPEALS TO OYO GOVERNMENT FOR NEW BUS

By OyoSportsNews 

Oyo State Pillar of Sports, Mr Temitope Ademola Obideyi, has expressed deep concern and extended his heartfelt sympathy to Crown FC of Ogbomoso following the road accident involving the club’s Toyota Coaster bus while travelling to Ijebu-Ode for the AFH Pre-Season Tournament at Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu, Ogun State.

The unfortunate incident occurred along the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode route, with 35 players reportedly on board as the team travelled for the 10-day tournament designed to prepare participating clubs for the new season.

Obideyi, who is also the Chairman of the Pillar of Sports and Youth Development Foundation, said he was deeply saddened when he received news of the accident, particularly the injuries sustained by the club’s driver. He expressed concern for the welfare of the affected members of the travelling party and prayed for their speedy recovery.

The sports philanthropist also extended his sympathy to the management, players, supporters and the entire people of Ogbomoso, acknowledging the anxiety and distress the incident must have caused among the club’s loyal fans and well-wishers.

As part of his immediate support for the affected team official, Obideyi pledged cash gift to assist with the driver’s medical expenses, while wishing him a quick and complete recovery. The gesture, according to the sports enthusiast, reflects the need for collective support and compassion for those who dedicate themselves to the development of sports in Oyo State.

Beyond his immediate intervention, Obideyi made a passionate appeal to the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, to expedite its plans to provide Crown FC with a new Toyota Coaster bus.

He stressed that the provision of a reliable team bus has become increasingly important as Crown FC prepares for the new Nigeria National League (NNL) season, which is scheduled to commence on October 31. The Ajilete Warriors are expected to begin their campaign with an away fixture against Heartland FC in Owerri.

Obideyi noted that a dependable means of transportation is essential to the safety, comfort and performance of players and officials, especially as the club undertakes long-distance journeys for league matches and other competitions.

He urged the state government to treat the request as a matter of urgency, pointing out that investing in the club’s transportation needs would not only improve the team's welfare but also demonstrate the government's continued commitment to grassroots football and sporting development across the state.

The Pillar of Sports further appealed to the government and other stakeholders to rally around Crown FC during this challenging period, stressing that the welfare of players and officials should remain a priority.

Meanwhile, Obideyi encouraged the Crown FC players not to allow the unfortunate incident to derail their preparations for the forthcoming season. He urged them to remain focused, united and mentally strong, while prioritising their health and recovery.

He added that the AFH Pre-Season Tournament should serve as an opportunity for the team to sharpen its tactical and technical abilities ahead of the NNL campaign, while reminding the players that their safety and well-being must come first.