Urhobo youth wing distances self from nationwide protests
By ABIRHIRE THOMAS, Asaba
The Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, Youth Wing, Worldwide, has distanced itself from the proposed nationwide protests against the economic hardship in the country.
The UPU Youth wing, in a communique signed by the National President, “Osu re Ighele”, Activist Blessed Ughere, on Wednesday, said engaging in protest would be counterproductive, calling on all sons, daughters, and residents of Urhobo land to boycott the protest.
According to the communiqué, “Given the current security challenges affecting Delta Central (Urhobo Nation) and Urhobos in other parts of Delta State, we firmly believe that engaging in protests now would be counterproductive.
“Therefore, we categorically state that we will not support any form of protest across Urhoboland in Delta State by any group or individuals. Engaging in such protests risks exacerbating the existing security challenges in the country, creating opportunities for criminal elements to exploit innocent citizens and instigate further chaos.
“We appeal to all concerned groups and individuals to refrain from organizing any protests within any Urhobo kingdom in Delta State. We also urge all Urhobo sons and daughters, as well as residents in Urhobo land, to boycott the proposed protest.”
Speaking on the issue of insecurity, the communique noted that the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth Wing Worldwide is currently in discussions with the Delta State Government.
It said it has made recommendations for the establishment of permanent military checkpoints in key areas to help mitigate the security challenges in the state.
The UPU Youth wing advised all citizens to be cautious, vigilant, and alert while accessing areas that require urgent security attention, especially Egbo, along the Agbarho-Ughelli Road and the Ughelli-Patani Highway, among others.
It also urged leaders and other stakeholders in the region to join hands in assisting security agencies to maintain law and order, which it said are imperative for the prosperity, peace, and progress of the state and country.
