Bayelsa State is currently embroiled in controversy following a formal petition submitted to law enforcement authorities against the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Baralatei Igali, over allegations of threats to life, threatening violence, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.
The petition, filed by legal representatives of Mr. Ebbyzyymore Numa, a sports stakeholder in the state, accuses the commissioner of issuing threats in response to allegations of mismanagement of funds and infrastructural decay within the sports sector.
According to the complaint submitted by R.V. Baribote Law Practice on behalf of Numa, the petitioner had, in 2024 and 2025, raised concerns over the state of sporting facilities in Bayelsa, particularly the Asoama Sports Academy, Agalabiri Football Academy, and stadiums across the three senatorial districts of the state. Through multiple written requests, Numa had sought an official response from Hon. Igali regarding the alleged mismanagement of funds meant for the maintenance and development of these facilities.
Despite these repeated inquiries, no official counter-statement was issued, leaving the allegations unaddressed. However, the matter escalated when, according to Numa’s claims, the commissioner allegedly threatened him in the presence of witnesses, warning that he “should not undermine his person” and implying severe consequences for his actions.
The petition further alleges that the commissioner’s statements have incited agitation among stakeholders in the state’s sports sector, with many reportedly contemplating resorting to self-help measures due to the perceived lack of accountability.
As a result, the legal representatives of the petitioner have called on the authorities to urgently investigate the matter and, if found culpable, prosecute Hon. Igali in line with the law. The petition stresses the need for law enforcement to intervene swiftly to prevent any breakdown of law and order that could arise from the ongoing tensions.
“Our client and witnesses are willing and ready to provide detailed information and necessary evidence regarding this matter whenever called upon,” the legal firm stated in the petition.
The controversy has sparked widespread discussions among sports stakeholders and the public in Bayelsa, with many awaiting the response of law enforcement agencies regarding the allegations. As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Igali has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.
Efforts to obtain an official statement from the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development on the matter have been unsuccessful. However, sources indicate that a formal response may be forthcoming in the coming days.
The unfolding situation continues to generate tension within the state’s sports community, with stakeholders keenly observing the next course of action by relevant authorities.
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