President Muhammadu Buhari has embarrassed Nigeria for refusing to provide support funds for the ongoing National Sports Festival in Edo, says a group, Concerned Edo Citizens Forum (CECF). 

Under the leadership of Roy Oribhabor, the group made the call in a statement in Benin on Thursday.

It said, “As concerned citizens, we are seriously embarrassed and disappointed to note that Nigeria government has not shown a serious capacity to fulfil her promise made to Edo state government.

“This is a national embarrassment. It’s a frustrating, disappointing, and great embarrassment to all Nigerians.”

On Wednesday, the Edo government threatened to shut down the 20th NSF by noon on Thursday over the non-release of support fund promised the state by the federal government.

Mr Oribhabor stated that the hope and aspirations of many youths participating in the NSF would be dashed should the government renege on its promise to Edo.

“We, hereby, call on the Nigerian government to immediately fulfil the promise made to Edo state government in regards to the supportive funds.

“A promise is a hope; the Nigerian government must act now,” added Mr Oribhabor.

The group, however, commended the Edo government for its commitment to host the 20th NSF.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth and Sport Development, Sunday Dare, has yet to return calls and a message sent to his line, NAN reports.

But the minister’s aide, John Akanji, referred NAN to the Secretary of the Main Organising Committee (MOC), Peter Nelson, for comments.

The MOC of the festival did not react to the Edo government’s threat to shut down the NSF by noon today.