The Urhobo Historical Society (UHS) has criticized the leadership of the Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU) for breaching the union’s constitution by getting involved in partisan political activities.
The society’s position is coming in the wake of the solidarity visit by the UPU executives to former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, currently facing allegations of corruption by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
President of the society, Dr. Aruegodore Oyiborhoro and Secretary, Onoawarie Edevbie, in a statement, expressed the society’s disappointment over the actions of the UPU executive, asserting that the UPU established in 1931, has historically maintained a non-partisan stance, representing the collective interests of Urhobo people above political affiliations.
The society reiterated that the UPU constitution mandates its leadership to remain apolitical and focused on service to the Urhobo people, accusing the current UPU executives of using the organization’s platform and symbols to further their political agenda, thereby undermining the credibility and integrity of the union.
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“The Urhobo Progressive Union is a sacred organization for Urhobo people, and no one should be bold enough to desecrate it,” the UHS said, adding that the leadership’s actions have brought shame to Urhobo people worldwide.
The society expressed dismay that while the UPU could organize a solidarity visit to Chief Okowa, it has been silent on pressing issues affecting the Urhobo people, including the illegal detention of Prof. Arthur Ekpokpo, by the military and the ongoing military siege on Urhobo territories.
The society urged members of the UPU executive who are unwilling or unable to uphold the organization’s constitution to step down immediately.
It also recommended that the UPU refrain from political involvement, avoid the use of UPU symbols during political activities, and respect the rule of law to preserve its neutrality and integrity.
