The grand finale of the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup tournament which held at Baptist High School Field, Orerokpe Town in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, ended with a thrilling encounter between Team Itsekiri (Ugbomaru FC) and Team Ndokwa (Ndokwa East United FC), with the former emerging victorious in a 3-1 scoreline, on Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Among the top dignitaries in attendance include the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Major General Mujakperuo Agho (Rtd), Orhue 1, and Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers.

The Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup, which featured 24 participating teams drawn from the six ethnic nationalities of Ijaw, Ika, Isoko, Itsekiri, Ndokwa and Urhobo, aim to promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and cultural understanding among the diverse ethnic groups in the state as they showcase their skills, fostering camaraderie.

On the awards, Team Itsekiri received a cash prize of ₦2 million, a trophy, and gold medals. Team Ndokwa secured ₦1.5m and silver medals, while Team Urhobo received ₦1m and bronze medals. The most valuable goalkeeper award went to Ekpeto Udubosi of Team Itsekiri. Team Isoko was disqualified and bound from participating in the tournament for the next edition.

In an analysis of the football encounter, Team Itsekiri broke the deadlock in the 25th minute with a stunning goal from their star striker, Ekpeto Udubosi. However, Team Ndokwa equalized just before halftime through a penalty kick converted by their Captain, Okoro Blessing.

In the second half, Team Itsekiri regained their momentum, scoring two more goals from Omatseye Eriyo and Ebiwei Gbenedio in the 60th and 80th minutes, respectively. Despite a spirited effort, the Team Ndokwa could not bridge the gap, ultimately conceding defeat.

Earlier, in the third-place match, Team Urhobo (Udu United FC) secured a walkover victory against Team Isoko (Winsome FC), who failed to show up for the game. This outcome automatically awarded Team Urhobo (Udu United FC) third place in the tournament.

The organiser and National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Chief (Comrade) Mulade Sheriff, praised the teams for their sportsmanship and commended the tournament's success in promoting ethnic harmony.

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