BENIN CITY- Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu weekend led the All Stars Fc of Benin against Austin Eguavoen captained Ex-players of Bendel Insurance FC of Benin in a novelty match as they entertained the Oba of Benin,His Royal Majesty,Ewuare 11 who was physically
present at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium.
The deputy governor who scored the
winning goal for his side via a penalty dedicated it to the monarch, saying that he was pleased to be involved in the celebration of the Oba, especially through football which he said was a unifying sport. He said the Oba was his father just as the
revered monarch calls him his son, adding that he was ready to play again and again to celebrate the Oba.
Presenting the giant trophy to Shaibu after the match, Oba Ewuare praised his physical fitness despite the heavy stress of the office of deputy governor. He said he was particularly pleased that he could make out time to play in commemoration of his first year on the throne of his forefathers.
The novelty match was part of events lined up to mark the first coronation anniversary of the Benin monarch as the Oba himself took the spot kick to the admiration of all.
It was fun as the Enigie(Dukes) and
selected palace chiefs engaged themselves in entertaining the monarch in 20 minutes football novelty. The Dukes carried the day via penalty.
Speaking shortly after the games, the Oba of Benin commended the organisers of the event urging Edo people to love themselves and encourage charity. He said Edo is one, adding that the Bini, Esan and Afemai should see themselves as one big family, living in peace.
He urged the enigie(Dukes) to direct their energy towards the promotion of peace and security in their respective domains. He said that with their display on the field of play, the chiefs have proved that they are physically fit to carry out their various assignments in the palace.
