By Abel Johngold Orheruata
The 2024 edition of the Dr. Hilary Obioma Ibegbulem Football Competition for the federating quarters of Ute-Okpu Kingdom, Ika North East Local Government Area, Delta State, commenced in grand style as Ibiegwa Quarters defeated Ogbe Quarters with a commanding 2-0 victory.
The opening ceremony, held at the Ute-Okpu Grammar School football pitch, drew a massive crowd of football enthusiasts from across Delta State. The tournament, which has been a longstanding tradition for over a decade, is designed to foster unity and camaraderie within the community.
Dr. Hilary Obioma Ibegbulem, the competition’s sole sponsor, expressed gratitude for the successful kick-off of this year’s event. Represented by Mr. Endurance Azobu, Senior Special Assistant (Political) to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Dr. Ibegbulem urged participants to embody sportsmanship and unity throughout the tournament.
Highlighting the event’s purpose, Dr. Ibegbulem, a former Principal Secretary to ex-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasized the importance of fostering harmony within the Ute-Okpu Kingdom, transcending political affiliations. He called on the youth to focus on peace-building activities during the festive season and reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that promote unity and development in the region.
Dignitaries, including Hon. Samson Nwenearizi, Comrade Peter Ozor, and Comrade Michael Ikeogwu (Senior Special Assistant, Media, to the Governor), lauded Dr. Ibegbulem for his unwavering dedication to the annual competition. They prayed for his continued strength and resources to sustain his impactful contributions to the community.
The weekend’s opening match saw Ibiegwa Quarters overpowering Ogbe Quarters, whose inexperienced goalkeeper struggled against their opponents’ relentless attack. The 2-0 victory set an exciting tone for the competition, promising more thrilling matches in the days ahead.