Secondary Education Minister, Prof. Pauline Nalova Lyonga, has shamed students and expressed dismay over reported incidents of theft of mattresses by some athletes at the FENASSCO League A Games held in Limbe for the past week.
During the closing ceremony of the 24th edition of the games on Tuesday, April 9, Minister Nalova Lyonga publicly addressed the disturbing issue, highlighting the theft of mattresses purchased to accommodate students at the event.
“It is a shame for you students. Limbe has been very friendly to you, yet you still steal mattresses,” lamented Minister Nalova Lyonga, expressing her disappointment at the reprehensible behavior.
She further emphasized her resolve to address the matter promptly.
“No bus is leaving from here until I identify where the mattresses have gone.”
The minister vowed to investigate the theft and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
According to Minister Nalova Lyonga, the theft of mattresses occurred despite efforts by teachers to instill moral values in the students, indicating a troubling disregard for ethical conduct among some athletes.
The incident contrasts the messages of responsibility and lawfulness conveyed by the athletes during the games, tarnishing the spirit of camaraderie and fair play that the event seeks to promote.
The FENASSCO League A Games, which commenced on Tuesday, April 2, brought together over 2,000 athletes from across Cameroon’s 10 Regions to compete in 12 sporting disciplines.
The final ceremony, held at the Limbe Centenary Stadium, culminated in a thrilling football match, with the East Region emerging victorious over the Center Region with a score of 2-1.
The presence of several government Ministers at the closing ceremony, including Nalova Lyonga of Secondary Education, Mounouna Foutsou of Youth and Civic Education, Joseph Le of Public Service and Administrative Reforms, and Jean de Dieu Momo of Justice, underscores the significance of the event.
Also in attendance was Minister Secretary of State to the Ministry of Basic Education, Asheri Kilo.
A last-minute decision relocated the closing ceremony from Ngeme Stadium to the Centenary Stadium.