The spectre which had haunted the reconstruction project at Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure has finally been exorcised with the contract award and commencement of work on the football pitch.

In 2012, the Ondo State government laid an artificial grass turf on the pitch to satisfy the yearnings of Sunshine Stars Football Club and other stakeholders for a befitting ground.

However, the job done was inconclusive as it did not deliver on the pitch’s perimeter tracks. That gaffe resulted in Ondo State losing its stranglehold on its shared dominance of Track and Field success in the country.

Remarkably, the government of Lucky Aiyedatiwa has found it expedient to reconstruct the arena to meet required standards pending when a bigger stadium will be built.

The perfect kickstart is worth the wait according to the Chairman, Ondo State Football Agency, Bamidele Ologunloluwa to avoid a white elephant project.

“The artificial grass turf which we enjoyed for many years was put in place in 2012. On expiration in 2019, the authority was supposed to have set the ball rolling for immediate replacement. That was never considered until five years later when the incumbent helmsman of Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa awarded the contract for the stadium’s rehabilitation.

“The project would have begun immediately but I understand the restraints due to the present rainy condition. Too much water and downpour will exacerbate the already bad state of the ground and make the job difficult for the contractor.

“The wait is worthwhile even as it is frustrating in certain quarters. For Sunshine Stars, we welcome a good job that will stand the test of time rather than a bad job done in a hurry.”

Ologunloluwa regretted that Sunshine Stars have turned over many star players due to the expired pitch that gave them various injuries.

“Many of our outstanding players had to leave the club for no other reason than the football ground which had worn out and subjected them to injuries and even fears.”

He appealed for calm as the project contractor has been adequately mobilized for necessary actions.