As the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) prepares for its much-anticipated election on Dec. 5, 2025, a new movement known as Making Urhobo Great Again (MUGA) is gaining momentum, calling for the restoration of unity, integrity, and progress within the Urhobo Nation. The initiative, spearheaded by leading figures across various sectors, seeks to return the UPU to the vibrancy it enjoyed under the visionary leadership of past icons such as Chief Mukoro Mowoe and Chief T.E.A. Salubi.
The MUGA campaign emphasizes patriotism and collective responsibility, urging Urhobo sons and daughters worldwide to unite beyond personal and political differences. The group’s advocates describe it as a “movement born out of love” for the Urhobo people, culture, and destiny a rallying point for a renewed sense of purpose.
A team of tested leaders
Leading the MUGA ticket for the 2025 UPU election is Chief Simeon Ohwofa, a veteran community leader and advocate for cultural preservation, as President-General. He is joined by Barr. Mike Igini, a legal luminary and governance reform advocate, as 1st Deputy President-General; and Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, a seasoned journalist, as 2nd Deputy President-General.
Other members of the slate include Mr. Patrick Origho, a retired permanent secretary, as Secretary-General; Dr. Benson Uwheru as Assistant Secretary-General; Prof. Sunny Awhefeada as Publicity Secretary; and Prof. Dicta Ogisi as Treasurer. Also on the team are Prof. Rose Aziza as Financial Secretary, Dr. Brown Umukoro as Legal Adviser, Chief Veronica Ajuebon as Assistant Publicity Secretary, and Mr. Matthew Ogagavworia as Auditor.
A vision for renewal
The MUGA team’s platform pledges to restore the dignity and unity of the UPU, promote socio-economic and cultural development, and strengthen ties with Urhobo communities abroad. Their agenda also highlights empowering youths and women, preserving the Urhobo language, and entrenching transparency in leadership.
A call to unity
Chief Dr. Richard Tiki Iyede, Chairman of the UPU Ireland Board of Trustees and Vice President of the UPU Europe Leaders’ Forum, described MUGA as “a defining moment for our generation” and a “call to duty for every true Urhobo son and daughter.”
“Our goal is simple to unite, rebuild, and reclaim our heritage with pride and purpose,” Iyede said. “This is about making Urhobo great again — one voice, one purpose, one people.”
