3rd March, 2013
Governor Liyel Imoke of Nigeria’s Cross River state who returned to Calabar Friday night, performed his first official function when he took the kick-off on Saturday in an international friendly match between the Golden Eaglets and their Botswana counterparts.
Imoke had been away from office since 7 December, fuelling speculations about his health. But officials said he was away to spend his accumulated leave.
Imoke, who was the Special Guest of Honour in the match played at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, at about 4.10pm, spotted a white face cap, a navy blue suit, a check shirt, a pair of black shoes and black belt to match, looked quite hale and hearty, with his grey goatee.
The Governor was accompanied by his wife, Obioma, and the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr Patrick Ugbe.
The governor was later joined in the first half of the match by his deputy, Mr Efiok Cobham, Senate Leader, Sen. Victor Ndoma-Egba, Rep. Essien Ayi and members of the state executive council.
NAN also reports that Imoke was also joined in the state box by Gov. Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State.
Eaglets won the match by 3-0 in the first half through a brace from Taiye Awoniyi and a goal from Ifeanyi Matthew.
The two teams are expected to meet again Monday March 4, for the second leg of the friendly in Calabar.