By Foster Akpore | Sapele, Delta State | November 1, 2025
As preparations gather momentum for the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) National Executive Council elections slated for December 5, 2025, the Union’s President General, Chief (Barr.) Ese Gam Owe, has cautioned against what he described as attempts to undermine the constitutional order of the organisation.
Owe made the remarks in reaction to the recent declaration by a group calling itself the “UPU Redemption Team,” which announced its intention to contest the Union’s leadership positions under a banner of reform.
In a statement titled “UPU Redemption: A Call to Rescue Urhobo Nation from Further Decline,” issued by journalist and media consultant Onitsha Ogaga Shedrack, the group said it was stepping forward to “restore integrity, accountability, and purposeful progress” to the UPU.
The team, led by Chief Simeon Ohwofa, a businessman and former President of the Urhobo Social Club, Lagos, includes Barr. Mike Igini, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, Prof. Rose Aziza, Prof. Dicta Ogisi, Patrick Origho (rtd Perm Sec), Dr. Brown Umukoro, and Chief Veronica Ajuebon, among others. The statement described the lineup as a “coalition of accomplished Urhobo leaders” committed to what it termed a “movement to reclaim the Union’s collective destiny.”
But Chief Owe, in a firm and measured response, said the UPU “is not an association for all comers,” stressing that its constitution—both the 2005 and 2024 editions—clearly defines the requirements for elective office.
“According to our constitution, any candidate seeking an elective position must have been visibly active in the affairs of the Union for at least three years prior to contesting,” he said. “Such participation may be at the branch or national level.”
He added that some of those now clamouring for change had not fulfilled this condition. “They are neither members of any branch nor have they contributed meaningfully to the Union’s work at the national level. Many have not even supported the organisation with their own resources. Leadership cannot be built on criticism alone,” he stated.
Chief Owe maintained that under his watch, the UPU had experienced steady growth, renewed unity, and greater recognition within and beyond Delta State. “In the past three years, we have brought the UPU into prominence and extended its reach across the world. Several new branches have been established, and divisions that once weakened our Union no longer exist,” he said.
He pointed to tangible achievements as evidence of his administration’s commitment to order and progress. These include the successful adoption of a new Constitution—a milestone that modernised the Union’s governance framework and restored constitutional discipline. He also referenced the Federal High Court Warri Order in Suit No: FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, which secured the release of detained Okuama community leaders following the UPU’s intervention, describing it as a defining victory for justice and advocacy under his leadership.
Furthermore, Chief Owe revealed plans for the renovation and upgrade of the Urhobo House at Uvwiamuge, Agbarho, noting that the project would transform the national headquarters of the UPU into a befitting centre for Urhobo unity and pride.
“These are not promises—they are actions already set in motion,” he said, adding that the UPU under his stewardship had become more stable, accountable, and respected.
He urged Urhobo sons and daughters to remain steadfast and to guard the Union’s unity against what he described as “ambition-driven distractions.”
When contacted for reaction, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, one of the names listed in the Redemption Team, said, “We shall not respond now. We shall do so at the appropriate time.”
Observers within Urhoboland view the coming election as a defining moment for the UPU, testing both its institutional discipline and the collective resolve of the Urhobo people to preserve unity while embracing the spirit of renewal.