Osun FA seeks urgent government intervention as Osun United and Osun Babes battle relegation, citing poor welfare and lack of support

The Osun State Football Association has called for urgent intervention from the state government as its two publicly funded football teams face the threat of relegation in their respective leagues.

The Osun FA relegation intervention appeal was made by the association’s chairman, Sola Fanawopo, who expressed concern over the declining performance of both Osun United and Osun Babes.

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Osun United, competing in the Nationwide League, currently sits in seventh position in Group B of a 10-team table, leaving the club close to the relegation zone with only a few matches remaining.

The team’s position has raised alarm among stakeholders who fear a possible drop if results do not improve.

Similarly, Osun Babes, who participate in the Women’s Premier League, are also struggling to maintain their league status. A series of poor performances has left the team hovering just above the relegation line, increasing pressure on players and officials.

Fanawopo attributed the teams’ struggles to challenges linked to inadequate welfare, limited operational support, and declining standards within the teams’ management structures. He warned that these issues have directly affected player morale and on-field performance.

He urged the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Kola Adewusi, who oversees sports in the state, to take a hands-on approach in addressing the situation. According to him, direct engagement with the teams could help identify the root causes of their decline.

The FA chairman specifically called for inspections of team facilities, transportation arrangements, and player living conditions, noting that such assessments would provide a clearer understanding of the challenges facing the clubs.

Fanawopo emphasized that immediate government action is necessary to stabilize the teams, improve welfare packages, and prevent relegation, which could negatively impact the state’s representation in Nigerian football.

Stakeholders within the football community have also expressed concern, noting that both teams must secure crucial results in their remaining fixtures to retain their league positions.

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As the season progresses, attention will now turn to whether the state government will respond to the appeal and whether the teams can reverse their fortunes on the pitch.