Mulade Kicks Off Delta Ethnic Peace, Unity Cup 2026 As Isoko United Cruise To 2-0 Victory
The Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) CEPEJ in collaboration with the Africa for Peace Sports Academy have officially kicked off his Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup Tournament 2026 Edition.
The tournament which was initiated by the Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom and National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Chief Dr. Mulade Sheriff was officially declared open amid fanfare, cultural displays, and a massive turnout of youths, traditional leaders, and football lovers from across the ethnic nationalities in Delta State. The initiative is aimed at using football as a tool to promote peace, unity, brotherhood, and harmonious coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in the state.
Speaking at the kick-off ceremony, Mulade said the tournament was more than a sporting competition, describing it as a peace-building platform designed to bring together the Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, Isoko, Anioma, and other ethnic groups under one umbrella.
Mulade emphasised that Delta State can only develop in an atmosphere of peace and mutual understanding, and urged players, coaches, and supporters to eschew violence and embrace sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He commended CEPEJ and the Africa for Peace Sports Academy for sustaining the vision of using sports to preach peace, while calling on government, corporate organizations, and well-meaning Deltans to support the initiative.
The opening match lived up to expectations as Isoko United defeated Team Isoko Nation 2-0 in a thrilling encounter that set the tone for the competition. Isoko United dominated possession from the blast of the whistle, scoring a goal in each half to seal a convincing victory in front of their cheering fans. The goals, which came through brilliant teamwork and clinical finishing, earned Isoko United the maximum three points and an early lead in the tournament standings, while Team Isoko Nation, despite putting up a gallant fight, could not break down the solid defence of their opponents.
At the end of the match, officials of CEPEJ and the Africa for Peace Sports Academy expressed satisfaction with the successful kick-off and the high level of discipline displayed by both teams.
The officials disclosed that the tournament would feature teams from different ethnic nationalities across Delta State, with matches scheduled to hold across various centres in the coming weeks. The organizers reiterated that the ultimate winner would go home with the coveted trophy, while all participating teams would be celebrated as ambassadors of peace and unity in Delta State.
