By THE 2024 edition of the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup concluded on a high note, fostering unity and celebrating sporting excellence among Delta State’s diverse ethnic groups.
Novelty Match
A special novelty match at Ode-Itsekiri marked the opening of the tournament and this year’s World Tolerance Day. The match featured Team Itsekiri/Ijaw against a combined team of other ethnic groups, symbolising inter-ethnic harmony.
The tournament’s initiator, renowned global peace ambassador Chief Comrade Mulade Sheriff, alongside the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and ex-Super Eagles stars such as Sam Sodje and Edema Fuludu, travelled to the creek community to ensure the event’s global standards were upheld.
Notably, this was the first time in over 20 years that Ijaw and Itsekiri communities united to form a joint team, a significant milestone in the region’s history of reconciliation.
The tournament began on 16 November and reached its climax on 8 December 2024, featuring teams representing Delta’s major ethnic groups.
The Ethnic Group Stage
Preliminary matches were held in six ethnic centres:
1. Isoko Ethnic: Oleh Township Stadium.
2. Ndokwa Ethnic: Kwale Township Stadium.
3. Itsekiri Ethnic: Nana Model College Stadium.
4. Ijaw Ethnic: Ogbe-Ijoh Secondary School Field.
5. Urhobo Ethnic: Agharho Primary School.
6. Ika Ethnic: Obiaruku Secondary School Field.
These matches showcased team spirit, sportsmanship, and determination among participants.
Knockout Stage and Finals
The knockout stage culminated in a thrilling final between Team Itsekiri (Ugbomarun FC) and Team Ndokwa (Ndokwa East United FC) at Oreorokpe, Okpe LGA. Team Itsekiri claimed the championship with a 3-1 victory. Quarterfinals were held at Obiaruku and Effurun, followed by semifinals in Oleh and Ughelli North.
Awards and Prizes
Champions (Team Itsekiri – Ugbomarun FC): ₦2 million, a trophy, and gold medals.
Runners-up (Team Ndokwa – Ndokwa East United FC): ₦1.5 million and silver medals.
Third Place (Team Urhobo – Udu United FC): ₦1 million and bronze medals.
Fourth Place: ₦500,000 consolation prize.
(Note: Team Isoko, Winsome FC, was disqualified for breaching tournament guidelines.)
Grand Finale
This year’s final embodied unity, with representatives from Delta North (Ndokwa), Delta South (Itsekiri), and Delta Central (Oreorokpe, the host). The event was a testament to Delta State’s growing bond of togetherness.
Comrade Mulade Sheriff emphasised that the tournament’s goals extend beyond sports: “We are playing for peace, unity, and talent discovery. This event strengthens inter-ethnic bonds and highlights Delta State’s rich cultural heritage.” The LOC Chairman and former Delta State Football Association (DFA) chairman echoed these sentiments, praising the tournament’s impact.
Future Prospects
The success of this year’s tournament sets the stage for its sixth edition. Plans include expanding participation, introducing new categories, and solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Delta State’s sports calendar.
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