Ibokun FC emerged as the 2024 Ijesa North champions after a hard-fought contest to clinch the Governor’s Cup on home soil.
The tournament, proudly sponsored by Pelumi Olajengbesi, featured over 22 teams from wards and towns across the Ijesa North Federal Constituency.
Ibokun FC navigated a series of challenging fixtures, defeating Esa-Oke 2-1 in the semi-finals to secure their place in the final.
Meanwhile, Ijebu-Ijesa FC advanced to the final after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Ipetu-Ijesa, ultimately prevailing in a penalty shootout.
In a tense showdown held on Tuesday, December 24, at Ibokun, Adeyemo Opeyemi delivered a stunning first-half performance, scoring the only goal of the match to seal a 1-0 victory for Ibokun FC over Ijebu-Ijesa FC.
The stadium erupted in celebration as players, the technical team, and residents of Ibokun celebrated their triumph after the referee’s final whistle.
“I am so happy that Ibokun won and that 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,” said Tolulope, a delighted Ibokun resident and spectator.
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The Governor’s Cup victory stands as a testament to Ibokun FC’s resilience and determination, marking a proud moment for the town and its supporters.
“It is very special to win in your hometown. This is the best Christmas and New Year gift. We will celebrate joyously,” another Ibokun resident, identified as Olu, disclosed.
Elder Kola Adewusi, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, presented a cheque for two million naira (N2 million) to Ibokun FC as the winner of the Governor’s Cup. The Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, presented a cheque for one million naira (N1 million) to Ijebu-Ijesa as the runner-up, while the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Moses Ilufemiloye Agunsoye, presented a cheque for N500,000 to Ipetu-Ijesa as the second runner-up.
The event was well attended by Fuji maestros Saheed Osupa and Taye Currency, the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Moses Olufemi Agunsoye, the Chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, Hon. Diran Odeyemi, the lawmaker representing Obokun State Constituency, Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi, popularly known as Irekandu, among others.
The favourite player of the tournament was rewarded with two trips to any African country of their choice, along with other prizes.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Elder Kola Adewusi, commended Pelumi Olajengbesi for his support for local sports and community development.
While highlighting the significance of the football competition, he urged residents of the Oriade/Obokun federal constituency to unite and support the developmental initiatives spearheaded by Human Rights Lawyer Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi.
Adewusi, who represented the governor, emphasised that such collective efforts are crucial for advancing democracy and fostering growth in the zone.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sports development as a tool for societal progress.
The Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, while speaking on behalf of traditional rulers such as the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye, praised Barrister Olajengbesi for his ingenuity and dedication to youth empowerment.
He commended the Human Rights Lawyer’s numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting the youth and fostering development across the constituency.
In his remarks, Barrister Olajengbesi expressed his vision to identify and nurture young football talents through the competition.
He revealed that recruitment agencies are set to scout exceptional players for opportunities abroad, enabling them to advance their football careers.
Mrs. Omowumi, one of the winners of the raffle draws thanked Pelumi Olajengbesi for organizing the event.
Omowumi who won a deep freezer revealed that she was considering a loan to get one since her old freezer got spoilt three years ago.