UYLA Issues Stern Warning to Omene: ‘Keep Your Opinions to Yourself’”

The Urhobo Youth Leaders’ Association (UYLA) has issued a strong warning to the former President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Olorogun Joe Omene to stop forcing his useless advice on the leadership of the UPU, warning him to distance himself from the administration of the UPU President-General, Olorogun (Barr) Ese Gam Owe.

This UYLA’s decision was conveyed in a statement signed by the National President, Olorogun (Amb) Samuel Onoriode Oghotomo (JP) and National Secretary, Olorogun (Dr) Augustine Ogheneovo Atiti after Omene publicly criticized the UPU leadership for not consulting him before visiting former Delta State Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa to thank him for supporting the election of Rt (Hon) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori as Governor of Delta State.

UYLA’s concerns about Omene stem from allegations of financial malfeasance and embezzlement during his tenure, including accusations of misusing funds from Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Mohammadu Buhari’s governments. His leadership was marked by division and controversy, disrupting rotational arrangements established for peace and fairness among the three Senatorial Districts in Delta State.

Additionally, Omene disrespected Urhobo Traditional Rulers, refusing to honour their invitations and instead insulting them in the media. Omene refused to handover at the expiration of his tenure, conducted a parallel election in Mosogar and refused to handover.

UYLA believes Omene’s influence would undermine the union’s people-oriented policies and hinder progress. They cited a publication in the Urhobo Voice (December 19, 2016) that condemned Omene’s actions and called for his banishment from Urhobo public events. The youth leaders urged Omene to beg for forgiveness instead of offering useless advice to the UPU leadership.

UYLA’s stance highlights the need for responsible leadership and accountability within the Urhobo Progress Union which Olorogun (Barr) Ese Gam Owe is offering the Urhobo people.