Ibokun Emerges Ijesa North Champions, Wins 2024 Governor’s Cup

Ibokun FC has emerged the 2024 Governor’s Cup after defeating Ijebu-Ijesa FC 1-0 in a final held on home soil in Ibokun on Tuesday, December 24.

The team claimed the trophy after a tournament that saw participation from 22 teams across the Ijesa North Federal Constituency.

The competition, sponsored by Human Rights Lawyer Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, showcased the best of grassroots football, with teams from various wards and towns battling for winning.

The semi-final fixture, Ibokun FC edged out Esa-Oke FC with a 2-1 win, while Ijebu-Ijesa FC triumphed over Ipetu-Ijesa FC in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

The final saw both Ibokun FC and Ijebu-Ijesa FC in a fiercely contested match. Adeyemo Opeyemi scored the decisive goal in the first half, securing a 1-0 victory for Ibokun FC. Jubilant fans, players, and technical staff celebrated wildly at the stadium as the final whistle signaled their hard-fought triumph.

Presenting the prize for the winning teams, Deputy Governor of Osun State, Elder Kola Adewusi, presented a cheque of N2 million to Ibokun FC as champions of the tournament.

Adewusi praised the initiative, commending Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi for his dedication to grassroots sports and community development.

“This competition demonstrates the power of sports to unite communities and drive development. The administration remains committed to promoting sports as a tool for societal progress,” Adewusi said.

Also, the runner-up, Ijebu-Ijesa FC, received a cheque of N1 million from the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, while Ipetu-Ijesa FC, the second runner-up, was awarded N500,000 by the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Moses Ilufemiloye Agunsoye.

A resident, Tolulope said, “I am so happy that Ibokun won and we were not defeated on our home soil. The players did not disappoint us. It was a fierce contest, but I’m glad that we won.

Another resident, Olu, remarked, “It is very special to win in your hometown. This is the best Christmas and New Year gift. We will celebrate joyously.”

In his remarks, Barrister Olajengbesi highlighted his vision for the tournament as a platform to identify and nurture football talent.

He revealed that recruitment agencies are set to scout outstanding players, offering them opportunities to advance their careers abroad.