By Amara Agha, Abakaliki
The Ezza Unity Cup football tournament has kicked off at the Onueke Township Stadium, uniting the forty-two communities of Ezza clan in Ebonyi State to promote peace and togetherness.
The opening match between Abaomege and Ishinkwo communities symbolised reconciliation, following past misunderstandings between both sides.
Speaking at the event, organiser of the match Engr. Darlington Ugota said the tournament was aimed at strengthening unity and discovering young football talents. “This competition is about unity and about harnessing the talents God has given to our youths,” he said.
Ugota who is the founder of Esthington Sports Club disclosed that outstanding players would be exposed to opportunities abroad, adding that “we did not bring you out to expose you and abandon you; we will guide you to the global stage,” while announcing that the grand finale would hold on January 7.
Ugota also proposed that December 27 be set aside annually for Ezza people to celebrate their unity and heritage. “If we continue like this, the bridge that has been separating us will be removed,” he noted.
Recalling the Ezza football academy unveiled last year, he said it now competes in Nigeria League One and has played matches in Cross River State, adding, “by the grace of God, some of our boys will soon get to the Super Eagles.”
The organiser urged the people to embrace peace and let past grievances remain in the past. “Whatever has happened in the past should remain in the past. The beauty of every celebration is celebrating with your brother,” he stressed.
He assured participating youths of support and guidance, saying, “together we can achieve a lot, and in two or three years, Ezekunna will go far if we stand united.”
Collaborating Engr, Ugota, the former House of Reps member representing Ezza North/Ishielu federal Constituency, Anayo Nwonu and Bar. Ifeanyi Nworie organizing committee chairman of the tournament emphasized the need for peace and unity among Ezza clan.
In his remarks, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, commended the initiative and prayed for sustained peace, urging the people to “continue to embrace unity as the foundation for development” in Ezza nation.
