Delta Peace & Unity Cup Kicks Off in Ode-Itsekiri with Prominent Ex-Internationals, Cultural Displays

The 2024 Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Football Tournament officially kicked off on Saturday, November 16, in the historic town of Ode-Itsekiri, also known as ‘Big Warri’, amidst celebration and high spirits. The opening ceremony of the five-day event was graced by several prominent figures, including former Nigerian football internationals Sam Sodje, Edema Fuludu, and Bright Omokaro.

Other dignitaries present at the event included Hon. Kenneth Nwaomucha, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, and key representatives from the host community, such as Hon. E.A.E. Otare Aja, Comr. Ejoh Dimas, and Comr. Asakpi Richardson, among others. The officiating team was led by referee Ede Gift, assisted by Asakpi Toritseju and Ogaga Diare.

The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup is organized by the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) in collaboration with the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and other partners. The competition, now in its fifth edition, seeks to foster peace and unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Delta State, spanning over a decade of commitment to social cohesion through sports.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Chief Sheriff Mulade, National Coordinator of CEPEJ, highlighted the significance of the November 16 date, which coincides with the United Nations International Day of Tolerance. He emphasized that the tournament aims not only to unite the various ethnicities in Delta but also to create opportunities for development and empowerment within the state’s communities. He urged all Deltans to support the initiative as a platform for lasting peace and meaningful growth.

“The tournament is a reminder of the importance of peace in our society. It is an avenue for greater unity and mutual respect among the ethnic groups of Delta State,” Mulade said, extending gratitude to the people of Ode-Itsekiri for hosting the event.

In his welcome address, Mr. Anthony Odonghanro, Executive Chairman of Ode Itsekiri, expressed his community’s appreciation for the opportunity to host the event. He also called attention to the underutilization of the world-class football pitch in Ode-Itsekiri, urging local sports enthusiasts to take full advantage of the facilities.

Former Super Eagles player Edema Fuludu, who also played a key role at the event, lauded the organizers for initiating the tournament, describing it as an important vehicle for unity and social development. Fuludu, who was part of the victorious Nigerian squad at the 1994 African Cup of Nations, recalled how football helped heal wounds during the Nigerian Civil War, citing the famous visit of Pele to Nigeria as an example. He stressed the potential of football to help the youth steer clear of negative influences such as drug abuse and cultivate leadership qualities.

The opening ceremony also featured a novelty football match, which saw a historic team-up of Ijaw and Itsekiri players against a combined squad of Ndokwa, Ika, Isoko, and Urhobo players. The match ended with a 2-0 victory for the Ijaw-Itesekiri team. The game was also punctuated with vibrant performances by the Itsekiri cultural troupe, adding a festive atmosphere to the proceedings.

With the official opening concluded, the tournament moved into its competitive phase on Sunday, November 17, with 24 teams drawn from across Delta State’s six ethnic nationalities. These teams will vie for the grand prize of N5 million at the finale, scheduled for December 8, 2024, in Oreorokpe, Okpe Local Government Area.

The Delta Peace & Unity Cup stands as a powerful testament to the role of sports in promoting social harmony and bridging divides within communities. As the tournament progresses, it is expected to leave a lasting impact on the state, not only in terms of sporting excellence but also in building a foundation for enduring peace and cooperation across Delta State’s diverse ethnic groups.