From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Labrador Aiteo FC has defeated Labrador Oando FC to win the former governor Timipre Sylva’s birthday tournament at the Community field, Okpoama, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The football match, which drew important dignitaries to Okpoama, including Sylva, his wife, and the Managing Director of Kojo Sam Logistics/ Labardor Security Services, Dr Kojo Sam, provided several cheers for supporters of both teams.
Despite several shots at goal from both teams, they could not register a goal in regulation, dragging the game into a penalty shootout.
Both teams missed one spot kick each, and the penalty shootout was further dragged into the sudden-death phase, which Labrador Aiteo won.
Sylva has implored political leaders to be intentional in giving back to society.
Sylva, who stated this during the celebration of his 61st birthday at his country home in Okpoama, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, pointed out that he brought the celebration of his birthday for the first time because he wanted to be intentional in giving back to his community.
According to him, if people shy away from their communities, nobody would come, and the people would be abandoned.
“Who else would come here if I don’t come here? These are my people. I was born among them. I think it is best to come back to my people to celebrate among them. Also, the situation of this place is very unique. This place is the end of Nigeria, so we have to be intentional in coming here. If not, nobody would be here.
“And of course, it is a rural settlement, and there are no jobs. If we are intentional about giving back to our community, then these people will be abandoned. That is why I chose to come here. If I don’t come, nobody will come. I am happy I am among my people. The kind of reception I receive, I am proud of it. It is also some sort of encouragement for me. Because if you are doing something and the people appreciate it, it would encourage you to do more.’’