By The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup concluded in style on Sunday, 8 December 2024, with Team Itsekiri (Ugbomarun FC) triumphing over Team Ndokwa (Ndokwa East United FC) in a thrilling 3:1 final.
The prestigious tournament, held at Baptist High School Field in Orerokpe Town, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, saw over 2,700 youths from diverse ethnic communities benefiting from its decade-long history.
Itsekiri Team and Ndokwa Team
Team Urhobo secured third place after Team Isoko failed to appear for the scheduled match. The champions, Team Itsekiri, were rewarded with N2.5 million, while Team Ndokwa and Team Urhobo received N1.5 million and N1 million, respectively.
The tournament was graced by the Orodje of Okpe, represented by Chief Michael Age, and attended by football legends Peter Rufai, Sam Sodje, and Edema Fuludu, adding grandeur to the event.
Now in its fifth edition, the initiative began as a platform to foster peace between the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups.
This year, it expanded to include teams from Ika, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Urhobo, furthering its mission of promoting harmony across Delta State.
Comrade Sheriff Mulade, National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) and the tournament’s initiator, expressed gratitude to participants, stakeholders, and sponsors such as the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
Mulade highlighted the competition’s success in uniting ethnic groups and empowering local youth.
Since its inception, the tournament has reached over 2,700 youths from Ijaw, Itsekiri, Ika, Ndokwa, and Urhobo communities, particularly those from riverine areas like Warri South-West Local Government Area.
Mulade emphasised its role in providing opportunities and fostering unity among marginalised groups.
CEPEJ has urged the Delta State Government and oil companies to support constructing mini-stadiums in coastal Ijaw and Itsekiri communities to boost sports development, unity, and economic growth.
The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup has become a beacon of hope, proving that sports can bridge divides, showcase talents, and promote peace.
“Sports events like this are meant to showcase the talents of the youths rather than recognising only the winners,” Mulade affirmed.
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