Okpe Union sets conditions for supporting Tinubu, Oborevwori, others in 2027 elections

The Okpe Union on Tuesday called on Okpe nationals to avoid blind loyalty to political parties and candidates, warning that the growth and development of Okpe Kingdom would remain stalled unless voters critically evaluate those seeking elective office.

In a statement by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union Worldwide, the organisation urged citizens to vote only for candidates who subscribe to the 14-point Okpe Nation Agenda. The statement, signed by Okpe Union President General, Prof Igho Natufe, and National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Victor Oruno, also advised Okpe nationals to register and obtain their permanent voter’s cards (PVCs).

“We call on all Okpe nationals to reclaim Okpe Nation for the growth and development of Okpe land. Blind support for political parties and candidates since 1999 has failed Okpe Nation across all indices of progress,” the statement read.

The union said it would endorse only candidates committed to actualising the 14-point agenda, which prioritises the development and preservation of Okpe identity, the teaching and promotion of the Okpe language in schools, the restoration of Okpe language broadcasts on state media, and the establishment of a postgraduate scholarship fund.

The agenda also proposes that 10 percent of donations from oil firms to Sapele and Okpe Local Government Councils be directed to the scholarship fund, to be managed by a Board of Trustees.

Other key priorities include the conversion of Sapele Technical College to a polytechnic, greater Okpe representation in state and national politics, periodic consultations between elected leaders and the community, the establishment of an Okpe Leaders Forum, empowerment of Okpe women, the creation of an Okpe Monitoring Board, and twinning of Okpe towns with major cities in Europe and North America to attract foreign direct investment.

The union traced the agenda to the Okpe World Conference held in Sapele from November 17–19, 2006, organised by the Okpe Voice, and approved by HRM Orhue I and his palace chiefs, which recognised Okpe as a distinct ethnic nationality.

The statement also cautioned against vote-buying practices, urging Okpe nationals to evaluate candidates based on performance and suitability rather than party affiliation. “As the 2027 election cycle approaches, it is critical for Okpe nationals to assess incumbents and prospective candidates for the presidency, vice presidency, governorship, and legislative positions on their individual merits, not political affiliations,” it said.

The union’s announcement signals a strategic effort to ensure political participation in the 2027 elections aligns with the long-term development goals of the Okpe Nation.