Ododo Novelty Match: Executive, Legislature clash ends in stalemate
By Bishop Aturu.
The much-anticipated novelty football match between the Executive and Legislative arms of Government organised to mark Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s first anniversary in office has ended in a thrilling stalemate.
The match showcased the camaraderie and teamwork by members of both arms of government.
The match, held at the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja, saw the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, representing the Governor and leading the Executive team as captain, while the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, captained the Legislatures.
Addressing the crowd before kick-off, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Oyibo described the match as a celebration of unity and collaboration between the two arms of government. He commended Governor Ododo for fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared vision, emphasising that the event was a reflection of the administration’s commitment to teamwork in governance.
“This novelty match is not just about football; it is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and unity that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has instilled in us. As we mark one year of his impactful leadership, it is important to show that we are a team on and off the field, working for the betterment of Kogi State,” Oyibo said.
On his part, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Ayenebe, applauded the initiative, describing it as a means of promoting physical fitness, bonding, and a sense of sportsmanship among government officials. He noted that the event aligns with the state government’s efforts to encourage grassroots sports development and youth engagement.
“This match underscores the importance of fostering healthy competition and teamwork. It also highlights our administration’s focus on sports as a tool for unity and youth empowerment,” Ayenebe stated.
The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, also lauded the novelty match as a significant gesture of harmony within the state’s leadership. Fanwo emphasised that the match was an opportunity to reinforce the synergy between the executive and legislative branches in delivering good governance.
“Our performance on the field today mirrors the way we work together in governance – as a team committed to the progress and prosperity of Kogi State. This is a moment of pride for all of us,” Fanwo noted.
On the legislative side, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly and captain of the Legislature team, expressed gratitude to the Executive arm for initiating the match. He described the event as a unifying platform that allowed both arms to engage in an informal yet meaningful way.
“The significance of this match goes beyond the field. It shows the strong relationship between the legislature and the executive, which has been pivotal in achieving the successes of the past year. We are glad to participate in this symbolic celebration,” Yusuf remarked.
The game itself was a thrilling encounter, with both teams showing remarkable skill and determination. The Executive team, led by Deputy Governor Oyibo, showcased strong tactical play, while the Legislature team, under Speaker Yusuf’s leadership, displayed resilience and creativity. Despite several close chances, the match ended in a goalless draw, much to the excitement of the spectators.
The event drew a large crowd, including government officials, civil society representatives, and enthusiastic football fans. It concluded with the exchange of commemorative plaques and group photographs, further emphasising the unity and collective purpose of the state’s leadership.
The novelty match served not only as a celebration of Governor Ododo’s first year in office but also as a testament to the administration’s dedication to fostering teamwork, mutual respect, and the overall development of Kogi State.
