The Executive Director, Edo State Sports Commission and immediate past Chairman, Owan West Local Government Council, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, has spoken of why he will no longer contest the forthcoming Local Government election coming up in April.
In a Press Statement personally signed by him, Hon Ilaboya, revealed that Edo State Government under the leadership of Mr. Godwin Obaseki, wants him to be part of the process of rebuilding sports in the state.
“The State Government has come up with a new vision to rebuild sports in the state and bring Edo State back to her pre eminent position.
“I am happy to be part of the team in this regard. Its a daunting assignment and I believe the team headed by ex-international Yussuf Ali will make the State proud.
“So, it is understandable that with the new assignment, I have to sacrifice my ambition to return to Owan West as the Chairman.
“It is huge sacrifice especially with my supporters and followers asking questions everyday.
“The past few days have been very hectic explaining to my numerous supporters why I had to take this new assignment ahead of the local government Chairmanship which they consider to be more prestigious.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to my supporters not be be dismayed, especially as the news came to them as a huge surprise. I believe this new assignment will reflect on my ability to contribute my quota to sports development in the state.
“For me, it is a privilege to be counted among the sports drivers in the state. My appreciation goes the state government for this wonderful opportunity.
“The government is desirous of using sports to drive youth engagement especially now that their vices is spreading like wild fire. Again, I am excited to be part of this new vision of redirecting our youths to Channel their energies on product ventures.
“For Owan West Youths, I want to reassure them that the Youth Foundation we established to ensure their flourishing future will remain my priority. We will continue to explore better ways to ensure the Foundation meets the yearings of the youths.”
On his supporters’ call for him to run for the Council race, Hon. Ilaboya responded: “this is a State assignment and I believe it supersedes my personal ambition to return to the Council.
“The ultimate trigger for me is the desire to put the state first before my personal ambition.”
Finally, Hon Ilaboya has urged the people of Owan West to come out en masse and vote for whoever emerges as candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the April 19 Local Government elections.
