Aiteo Cup: Bayelsa to declare holiday, reception for male, female teams

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Bayelsa government on Monday said it plans to declare a public holiday in the state in honour of Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United following their emergence as Champions of the Men and Women’s competitions of the Aiteo Cup.

According to a statement by Mr Doubara Atasi, Media Aide to Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Douye Diri made this known when he visited players and officials of Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United in the teams’ camp in Benin City shortly after their victories in the tournament.

Diri, who was represented by his Deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo praised the heroic achievements of the teams, describing them as heroes and heroines that Bayelsa people are proud of.

The governor said the success of Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United were due to handiwork of God, the dedication and commitment of the players and officials of the teams, as well as the prayers and support of the people of the state.

“His Excellency has said because of what you have done we are going to declare a Public Holiday in Bayelsa State to receive and welcome you back home. I told you that the spirit of Bayelsa is never intimidated, never conquered.

“His Excellency said I should wish you all the best and send his congratulations to you. He has spoken to us all night. So, we are here as a mark of further support to you. Relax and enjoy yourselves this night after your great achievements.

“We want to give thanks and glory to God Almighty for this double victory. God has again performed His miracle. When we say we are the Miracle Governor and Deputy Governor People thought we were joking.

“We said we were coming to Benin to win the two Cups and that is what we have done. The Governor told me go there, conquer and return and we have come, we have conquered, and we are returning”, Ewhrudjakpo said.

Both state owned male and female teams made history on Sunday evening at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, venue of the final match by clinching the two trophies at the same time.

Bayelsa Queens defeated FC Robo Queens of Lagos 4-2 while Bayelsa United triumphed 4-3 on penalty shoot outs against Nasarawa United after both teams battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Diri had pledged to redeem his pledge of replacing the aged buses that the teams used to participate in the competition if they win the trophies.