Francis Dufugha
…Describes championship as open competition and clash of titans
The Bayelsa State Draught Association, in collaboration with the King Odogu Draught Centre, has unveiled the eighth edition of the King Odogu Draught Tournament, promising an exciting contest among top players in the championship division.
The tournament, which is open to draught enthusiasts and members of the public, is scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the King Odogu Draught Centre, Yenizuepie, Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
The organisers described the competition as a clash of titans, expressing confidence that the championship would showcase the skills, experience and competitive spirit of draught players across the state.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Draught Tournament Committee, Dike Azuka Richard, alongside committee member King Odogu, the association said the tournament would provide a platform for both indigenes and residents of Bayelsa State to demonstrate their prowess in the traditional board game.
The committee disclosed that attractive cash prizes had been earmarked for outstanding participants to reward excellence and encourage greater participation in the game.
According to the organisers, the winner will receive ₦150,000, while the runner-up will go home with ₦100,000. The third-place finisher will receive ₦50,000, while the player who finishes fourth will be awarded ₦20,000.
Consolation prizes of ₦10,000 will also be presented to other participating players.
The committee further announced that the tournament would be held under the chairmanship of the Paramount Ruler of Obunaghan Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Peremobowei Yesibo (Ibolor XII).
Former Acting Governor of Bayelsa State, Rt. Hon. Werinipreye Seibarugu, and former Deputy Governor, Peremobowei Ebebi, are among the dignitaries expected at the event.
Other special guests listed by the organisers include the Director of Sports Development, Lambert D. Harrison; Prof. Elliot Isibiri; Dr. Peter Singabele; former Second Vice President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Alabo Nengi James, OON; Dr. Godspower Epidi; and retired Brigadier-General M.J.
The traditional fathers expected at the tournament include the Paramount Ruler of Opolo Community, His Royal Highness, Tiniya Moneyman Negebo, and former Bayelsa State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Chief Blessing Ipigansi Izagara.
The eighth edition of the King Odogu Draught Tournament is expected to attract draught enthusiasts, community leaders, sports stakeholders and members of the public for a day of competition and celebration of the game.
The organisers have called on draught lovers and interested members of the public to participate in the championship, which seeks to promote the game, discover talented players and strengthen social interaction through sports.
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