The Urhobo International Network of Professionals (UINP) has issued a strong public warning to political operatives and individuals allegedly spreading misinformation about the involvement of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in the forthcoming Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) national election scheduled for December 5, 2025.
In a statement signed by its President, Olorogun Ejovwoke Osiobe, the group dismissed claims that Governor Oborevwori had endorsed or backed any aspirant in the UPU contest, describing such reports as “false, irresponsible, and unacceptable.”
The UINP commended the governor for what it described as his people-oriented leadership style and effective implementation of the MORE Agenda, citing visible infrastructural development across the state, including roads, educational facilities, healthcare projects, and community-focused initiatives.
The group praised the governor’s inclusiveness and fairness, maintaining that he has remained neutral in matters relating to socio-cultural organisations.
According to the statement, concern followed reports alleging that a meeting of President-Generals of the 24 Urhobo kingdoms was held at the country home of Chief John Nani on Sunday, November 30, where claims were made suggesting that the governor had anointed a particular candidate for the UPU election.
The group further noted that similar narratives were being promoted by political operatives and aspirants seeking to influence delegates.
The organisation categorically denied any involvement by the governor, stressing that he has not endorsed, funded, instructed, or sponsored any candidate, nor mandated any aide to lobby traditional rulers or UPU officials on behalf of any aspirant.
Describing the use of the governor’s name for political advantage as dishonourable, the group said such actions constitute an insult to traditional institutions, a violation of the autonomy of the UPU, and a threat to Urhobo unity.
“The UPU election is not for sale. Delegates must be allowed to make their choice freely, without coercion or deception,” the statement read, adding that only the delegates possess the legitimate authority to decide the outcome of the election.
The UINP warned that it would expose individuals or groups who persist in spreading false endorsements and would formally petition the governor and relevant authorities if the practice continued. Aspirants were urged to focus on presenting their vision and competence to delegates rather than resorting to misinformation.
The group concluded by reaffirming that Governor Oborevwori “remains governor for all Deltans and has no candidate for the UPU election,” calling on stakeholders to promote peace, truth, and respect ahead of the polls.
Nani Dismisses Claims of Political Meeting at His Residence
Reacting to the allegations, the Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief John Nani, has dismissed reports that his residence was used for a meeting where directives were allegedly issued linking Governor Oborevwori to an endorsement in the UPU election.
Speaking in a phone interview with NewsNet Nigeria, Nani described the allegations as fabricated and a deliberate attempt to spread falsehood and blackmail innocent persons.
“Nothing like that was discussed in my house. People should stop telling lies and blackmailing others,” he stated.
Nani explained that the visit by the President-Generals of the 24 Urhobo kingdoms was a routine courtesy call traditionally held during the Christmas season and had no political undertone.
“Every year the President-Generals come to my house for Christmas. They came to remind me not to forget them for their Christmas, and I assure them that I will send whatever I usually give them. They don’t even need to come to my place because I can always send it to where they gather in Uvwie,” he said.
He noted that his interaction with the visitors was limited to hospitality, stressing that he only supported drinks for them and that they arrived before he did.
“They got to my compound before I arrived. I was still in Warri when they informed me they were already there. This is not the first or second time this kind of visit has happened,” he disclosed.
Nani insisted that the UPU election was never discussed during the visit.
“Nobody mentioned anything about how the UPU election would be done in my house—talk less of saying the governor has endorsed anyone,” he emphasized.
He further clarified that he has not had any recent contact with Governor Oborevwori beyond briefly greeting the governor at the burial ceremony of Hon. Ben Igbakpa’s father-in-law.
“I have not seen the governor for months, apart from that burial where we only greeted ourselves. I have not discussed anything with the governor,” he said.
Describing the claims as baseless speculation, Nani added: “It is just the figment of their imagination. If the governor wants to give any directive, should it be through me?”
He called on those circulating the allegations to correct the false impression, reiterating that no political or electoral matter relating to the UPU or the governor was discussed at his residence.
