By Foster Akpore
OVWOR OLOMU, Delta State – Orogun Kingdom has emerged champions of the 2026 Ighele Cup after defeating Oruarivie-Abraka Kingdom 2-1 in the final of the Urhobo football tournament held on Thursday, October 1, at Ovwor Secondary School, Ovwor Olomu, Delta State.
Organised by the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth Wing Worldwide, the tournament brought together teams from across Urhobo land to promote youth development, sporting excellence and unity.
Uvwie Kingdom secured third place after defeating Ogor Kingdom in a penalty shootout in the third-place playoff.
Israel James of Oruarivie-Abraka won the Best Goalkeeper award, while his teammate, Godstime Rashford, emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with three goals. Agbarha Kingdom received the Best-Behaved Team award, while Peter Agbedia was also recognised for his contribution.
The President-General of Orogun Kingdom, Chief E.T. Opone, who attended the final to support the team, commended the players for their performance and expressed appreciation to the sponsors, supporters and well-wishers whose financial and other contributions made the victory possible.
He described the triumph as a proud moment for Orogun Kingdom, acknowledging the collective effort that propelled the team to the championship.
Olorogun Warri Dennis Ojarikre, who donated ₦200,000 to motivate the team, dedicated the victory to former President-General, Chief (Barr.) Benson Ndakara, describing him as a father, mentor and builder of men, and a fitting birthday tribute to his legacy of leadership and mentorship.
The President of the UPU Youth Wing Worldwide, Blessed Ughere, described the tournament as a celebration of unity and sportsmanship, stressing that there was “no victor, no vanquished.”
He said the competition represented a collective victory for the Urhobo nation and expressed optimism that the tournament would provide a platform for young footballers to develop their talents and access opportunities in professional football, including in Europe.
The Director of Sports and Talents Development in the Office of the President-General of Orogun Kingdom, Comrade Orogunfere Okpako Felix, congratulated the players on their achievement and expressed gratitude to individuals and organisations whose support made the kingdom’s participation possible.
He acknowledged the contributions of Chief E.T. Opone, Olorogun B.O. Ndakara, Mr. Andy Obadjere, CSP Gladys Imegu, Comrade Lucky Akpobasah, Olorogun Ambassador M.O. Anuku, Evangelist Alfred Ogobene and Olorogun Warri Dennis Ojarikre.
Okpako also appreciated those who attended the final to cheer the team, particularly Olorogun D.O. Warri, who travelled from Lagos, as well as Emmanuel Oghenerhoro, Romeo Hitler Nyerovwo and Foster Akpore.
He expressed gratitude to the President-General for the opportunity to serve, noting that the championship had brought pride and honour to Orogun Kingdom.