Ibokun FC triumphed in the 2024 Governor’s Cup, becoming the Ijesa North champions after a fair contest.
The tournament, proudly sponsored by Human Rights Lawyer Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, saw over 22 teams from wards and towns across the Ijesa North Federal Constituency competing for the coveted trophy.
The journey to the trophy was marked by intense fixtures.
Ibokun FC secured their place in the final after defeating Esa-Oke FC 2-1 in the semi-final. Similarly, Ijebu-Ijesa FC advanced after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Ipetu-Ijesa, where they emerged victorious in a penalty shootout.
In the final, played on Tuesday, December 24, the two teams – Ibokun FC and Ijebu-Ijesa FC – battled fiercely.
Adeyemo Opeyemi’s impressive first-half performance saw him score the only goal of the match, securing a 1-0 victory for Ibokun FC.
The win sparked jubilant celebrations among players, the technical team, and residents of Ibokun, who flooded the stadium as the referee signaled the end of the match.
“I am so happy that Ibokun won, and we were not defeated on our home turf. The players did not disappoint us. It was a fierce contest, but I’m glad we won,” Tolulope, a spectator and Ibokun resident, told reporters.
Another resident, Olu, expressed his excitement: “It is very special to win in your hometown. This is the best Christmas and New Year gift. We will celebrate joyously.”
Elder Kola Adewusi, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, presented a cheque of ₦2 million to Ibokun FC as winners of the Governor’s Cup.
The Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, awarded ₦1 million to Ijebu-Ijesa FC as runners-up, while the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Moses Ilufemiloye Agunsoye, presented ₦500,000 to Ipetu-Ijesa FC as the second runner-up.
The event was graced by notable personalities, including Fuji music legends Saheed Osupa and Taye Currency, traditional rulers like the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, and the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Moses Olufemi Agunsoye, as well as Hon. Diran Odeyemi, Chairman of the Governing Council, Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, and Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi, popularly known as Irekandu, representing Obokun State Constituency.
The tournament’s favorite player was rewarded with two trips to any African country of his choice, alongside other prizes.
Speaking at the event, Elder Kola Adewusi commended Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi for his unwavering support for local sports and community development. He emphasized the importance of the competition in fostering unity and development within the Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency.
Representing the governor, Adewusi reiterated the administration’s commitment to leveraging sports as a tool for societal progress.
Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, praised Barrister Olajengbesi for his dedication to youth empowerment and the development of Ijesa North.
He highlighted the lawyer’s numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting the youth.
In his remarks, Barrister Olajengbesi outlined his vision of using the competition to identify and nurture young football talents.
He revealed plans for recruitment agencies to scout outstanding players for international opportunities, enabling them to advance their football careers and bring honor to the constituency.
