Edo State political leader Senator Adams Oshiomhole and other notable individuals and politicians have applauded the Novelty/Victory Football Match held on Sunday, in celebration of the new Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpeblolo and his Deputy, Rt. Hon Dennis Idahosa.
The game tagged ‘Akpakomiza and Friends Novelty Match’ was staged at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Benin City with several ex-internationals and political bigwigs in attendance.
Immediate past Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu led the ex-internationals which consists of former Green Eagles Star, Felix Owolabi, Headmaster Mutiu Adepoju, Bright Omokaro known as 10-10 amongst others, against “Akpakomiza and Friends” captained by Edo State APC Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe.
Shaibu who scored the first goal for the ex-international side in their 2-1 victory said the game enables the much craved atmosphere of camaraderie between career politicians, ex-internationals, and other notable individuals in other fields of endeavor.
“It’s truly heartwarming to see some of these great stars again, event of this nature don’t come by too often hence the celebration before, during and after the match.”
For the State Party Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, “it’s refreshing way to
usher in a new government in our beloved state and I am so excited to have been part of this epoch making event.”
Emperor Tenable who was in goal for the AKPAKOMIZA Side, appreciated the organisers for a job well done.
Another political heavyweight, who was at the State Box to enjoy the atmosphere was Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the Secretary of the Inauguration Committee. “Honestly, I enjoyed every bit of the game especially seeing most of our notable ex internationals at close quarter.
“Kudos to Frank Ilaboya and his team for a job well-done.”
An elated Felix Owolabi savours every moment of the friendly ambiance as he revisits his playing days against Bendel Insurance at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
“This moment brings back plenty of memories, the haydays of Bendel Insurance when the stadium is always packed full several hours before each game and the quality of football played on this pitch.
“I remember my days with Shooting Stars versus Insurance, it was always a wonderful moments each time we squared up against Insurance either here in Benin or at Ibadan.
“It’s a good thing to be here again, and I wish the new government of Edo State the very best”
Another ex-international the fans were so excited to see again was Mutiu Adepoju fondly called the Headmaster. Adepoju , like Owolabi, said the game provided him the opportunity to reunite with some of his old teammates.
“I have truly enjoyed myself in Benin in the last two-days, and reuniting with my former teammates on the pitch makes it even more memorable.
“It’s my desire to return to Benin in the nearest future, and I hope the new government in the state will also throw its weight behind sports development.”
The spokesperson for the organising committee, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, expressed his delight on the overall success of the novelty match.
“I am happy with what we were able to achieve within a very short period, I wish to appreciate the ex-internationals for making out time to be here, and to all our partners for throwing their weight behind the novelty match”.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpeblolo, and the state political leader, Senator Adams Oshiomhole did the ceremonial kick-off.
