Nigerian athletes in the 10,000m final at the National Sports Festival in Ogun State had to run in darkness when the floodlights at the MKO Abiola Stadium suddenly went out during the race.
A video from SaharaReporters showed the chaotic moment as the lights failed, leaving the track nearly dark while athletes struggled to keep going.
A journalist present called the situation “shameful” and “dangerous.”
The MKO Abiola Stadium, recently renovated with public funds, was meant to represent the government’s dedication to sports development.
However, the blackout on Saturday night raised new concerns about the infrastructure and planning quality under Dapo Abiodun’s administration.
“Stadium lights went off during the 10,000m final at the National Sports Festival. Athletes were forced to run in the dark. This is unacceptable in 2025,” the journalist said.
“Those responsible must be held accountable — such negligence has no place at the National Sports Festival.”
