The much-anticipated Edo State Football Association Elective Congress has at last been slated for Friday, November 17th, 2023, bringing an end to the prolonged electoral uncertainty.
Intervening in the protracted Edo FA Elections matter, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) dispatched a formidable three-man delegation to Benin City. The delegation, spearheaded by Vice-President Felix Anyansi Agwu, alongside Alhaji Babagana Kali and Ali Abubakar, engaged in extensive discussions with the Edo FA board, contestants, and key stakeholders to address lingering concerns.
After a harmonious deliberation with the Edo FA Board, attended by state football stakeholders, four championship candidates, local FA chairmen, and statutory delegates, the elections, beset by numerous delays, were unanimously rescheduled for Friday, November 17th, 2023. The venue, the Airforce Base by Ihama junction along Airport Road, Benin City, will witness the electoral process kick off at 11:00 am.
The chairmanship position sees formidable contenders in Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, Engr Emmanuel Edekin Imiere, Johnbull Edosomwan, Egbon Victor, and Benjamin Owerei. Meanwhile, Kindness Ohiowele, a current board member of the FA, stands uncontested for the vice-chairmanship role.
For the membership positions, seven candidates, including three current board members (Amadin Stephen, Charles Olubayo, Faith Ojeaga), vie for the positions alongside Mike Uhuanmwangho, Mikhail Osakpomwan Igbinovia, Kenneth Ugbodaga, and former board member Paul Ojeisekhoba.
Delegates from the 18 Local Government Football Councils and statutory delegates from the Referee Association (Edo Referee Council), Nigeria Coaches Association (Edo State Chapter), Bendel Insurance FC (Premier League representative), Edo Queens FC (Nigeria Women Football League), Fortress Ladies FC (Nigeria Women Amateur League), and Rolly FC (Nationwide League NLO) will collectively determine the fate of the forthcoming Edo State Football Association Board.
Expressing gratitude, the outgoing Edo FA Chairman, Dr. Aghedo Moses, thanked the Edo State Government, football enthusiasts, and the Nigeria Football Federation for their timely intervention. He eagerly anticipates handing over to the new Board and urged all candidates to collaborate with the Electoral and Appeal committees, headed by SP Saturday Okao (rtd) and Mr. Osamudiamen Osagiede, ensuring a fair and seamless exercise for all contestants.