Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
Indigenes of the three sub-Yoruba ethnic groups in the Kwara South Senatorial District of Kwara state have organised a football competition aimed at celebrating communal bonding and networking among the people.
Three teams, representing the Igbomina, Ibolo, and Ekiti sub-Yoruba ethnic groups in Kwara South Senatorial District, competed against each other in a round-robin format.
Speaking during the football fiesta held at the newly commissioned Zeems Sports Arena, Offa, the convener of the event, Adetola Kehinde, said that with the football competition, “we have witnessed not just the spirit of competition, but also the spirit of unity and brotherhood that define us as a community”.
While he appreciated all the sponsors, who he said made financial contributions to the event, the convener also said that, “this fiesta is a testament to our commitment to fostering strong communal ties and celebrating our co-existence”.
He added that the event, which took place between 9:00 am and 12:00 noon, featured a series of matches to strengthen communal bonds and foster networking among the participants.
He said: “The football fiesta started with an enthusiastic crowd filling the arena, eager to support their teams who had travelled from far and near. The atmosphere was electric, with vibrant displays of contemporary music provided by Cruise DJ Sulex setting the stage for the matches.
“Each match showcased the skill, determination, and camaraderie of the players, as they battled it out on the pitch with the goal of strengthening communal bond.
“The first match of the day saw the Igbomina team face off against the Ibolo team in a thrilling encounter. Both sides demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork, but it was the Ibolo team that emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of a goal from Adeyeye.
“The second match featured the Ekiti team taking on the Ibolo team. Despite a valiant effort from the Ekiti players, the Ibolo team secured a 1-0 victory, courtesy of a goal from Jarus.
“The final match of the day was a highly anticipated clash between the Igbomina and Ekiti teams. With both sides having suffered defeats in their earlier matches, the stakes were high. The game was a nail-biting affair, with end-to-end action and numerous scoring opportunities.
“In the end, the match ended in favour of the Ekiti team with a 3-0 victory.”
The competition also featured the recognition of some notable personalities for their contributions to community development. These are Aremo Odo of Oro Kingdom, Mr. Anthony Oyeyiola; Mr. Suraj Oyewale, CEO Jarus Homes; Aare Bobajiroro of Offa land, Mr. Musbau Olaniyi for building such a global standard sports facilities in Offa; Alabi Hamed, CEO Hadji Mart.
As the sun set over Zeems Sports Arena, the sense of achievement and togetherness was palpable, making the event a memorable and successful one in Kwara South.
Leave a Reply