Momoh Umar Momoh, Benin
Following the spate of cult- related killings and other social vices, a group under the aegis of the Edo Legal Sports Campaign Committee has planned a youth football tournament to curb the menace.
The group made the disclosure on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku in Benin City.
Speaking the leader of the group, Darlington Omokaro, said the visit was to officially inform the House about engaging young people through sports to fight social vices in the state.
Omokaro added that the 2025 campaign, would involve 16 teams selected from the state’s three senatorial districts.
Omokaro also reeled out the prizes to be won by the participating teams.
He said the sum of N10 million prizes would go for the overall winner, N5 million for first runner-up and N3 million for the second runner up.
According to him, four teams each will represent Edo North and Central, while the remaining eight teams will come from the Edo South zone.
“Five universities will join including Igbinedion, Ambrose Alli, University of Benin, Edo University Iyamho, and Benson Idahosa University,” he said.
Omokaro disclosed that the tournament has been scheduled from July to August 2025, with matches to be held at the University of Benin Sports complex.
He listed the key partners to include the Edo Sports Commission, House of Assembly, State Police Command, Football Association, and University of Benin.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku, lauded the effort of the body, noting that sports was a valuable tool for promoting unity and peace throughout the state.
Agbebaku, advised them to continue the partnership with House Committee Chairman on Information and Sports, Donald Okogbe, to ensure sustainable collaboration and support for the tournament’s goals.
