By Emeka Amaefula
HON. JOHNSON DURU REMEMBERS SON, MiO CHIDI — KICK STARTS IDEATO FOOTBALL TALENT HUNT
Central School 2, Aforukwu Isiekenesi, was transformed into a vibrant arena of emotion, unity, and celebration as the Oganihu Football Talent Hunt—held in loving memory of his son, late MiO Chidi (Mitchell Duru) which kicked off in grand style.
The event, powered by Rt. Hon. Engr. Johnson Iheonukara Duru who holds traditional chieftaincy title of Dikeoha Ideato, and a serving member representing Ideato South State Constituency at Imo state House of Assembly, became both a memorial and a movement: a powerful blend of legacy, youth empowerment, and grassroots sports revival.
Dignitaries, football lovers, family members, political leaders, and community figures filled the school grounds, paying tribute to MiO Chidi while cheering on the emergence of new football stars from Ideato nation.
The grand opening drew notable personalities including the Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Evaristus Onyeocha, and the Chief Whip of the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri. With applause sweeping across the field, Dikeoha took the ceremonial kickoff, signalling the official start of the tournament.
The opening match was between—Isiekenesi Ward 1 vs. Isiekenesi Ward 2 which delivered an electrifying contest, setting a vibrant tone for the competition ahead.
Addressing the Oganihu Media Team, tournament convener Apostle Joe Ezeahurukwe expressed satisfaction at the turnout and purpose of the event. “This tournament is more than football—it is a mission to discover hidden brilliance among our youths. We appreciate Dikeoha for his vision, passion, and commitment to empowering the next generation,” he said.
Hon. Johnson Duru, visibly moved by the significance of the event, reaffirmed his dedication to youth development and the power of sports to unite, uplift, and inspire. “This tournament is a tribute to my son, MiO Chidi. Through this initiative, his legacy of love, hope, and excellence lives on. And through football, we give our youths a chance to dream and excel,” he stated. His son Mitchell Duru passed on while in the United States of America USA at a tender age under 25.
As the Oganihu Football Talent Hunt progresses, excitement continues to swell across Ideato communities. Coaches, scouts, and football enthusiasts await the rise of new stars—young athletes ready to carry the torch of Ideato’s football future.
With passion ignited and legacy driving the vision, Ideato stands on the threshold of discovering its next football champions.
—————Emeka Amaefula —-+234(0)8111813069—-
