Edo Dep. Gov, Eguavoen, Enigie Star in Oba Ewuare II Coronation Anniversary Match

Â ByÂ Adibe EmenyonuÂ in Benin City

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Philip Shaibu at the weekend led the All Stars FC of Benin against the Austin Eguavoen captained Ex-players of Bendel Insurance FC of Benin in a novelty match to mark the coronation anniversary of Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Ewuare II who was physicallyÂ present at the game.

The deputy governor who scored the winning goal of the match played right inside the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium as part of activities marking the Obaâ€™s one year anniversary of his coronation, dedicated his goal to the Benin monarch.

He said the Oba was his father just as theÂ revered monarch calls him his son, adding that he was ready to play again and again to celebrate the Oba.Â

Presenting the giant trophy to Shaibu after the match, Oba Ewuare praised his physical fitness despite the heavy stress of his office as deputy governor.Â

The monarch said he was particularly pleased that he could make out time to watch the football match in commemoration of his first year on the throne of his forefathers.Â

It was fun as the Enigie (Dukes) andÂ selected palace chiefs engaged themselves in entertaining the monarchÂ in 20 minutesÂ novelty football which saw the dukes triumphing in penalty shoot outs.

Speaking shortly after the game, the Oba of Benin commended the organisers of the event, urging Edo people to love themselves and encourage charity.Â

He said Edo is one, stressing that the Bini, Esan and Afemai should see themselves as one big family and live in peace.Â

While urging the Enigie (Dukes) to direct their energy towards the promotion of peace and security in their respective domains, Oba Ewuare II, noted that with their display on the field of play, the chiefs have proved that they are physically fit to carry out their various assignments in the palace.