In a significant move today, the Urhobo Youths Stakeholders Forum (UYSF) sent a formal letter to the President General of UPU Worldwide, Chief Barr Ese Gam, addressing crucial concerns about the forthcoming UPU Youth Wing elections. Led by Comrade Amb Ogaga Darlington Ossai, the convener of UYSF, accompanied by the Secretary of the Steering Committee, Mrs Ogheneruona Lauretta Etaluku-Ogbokor, and Rtd Segt Ovie Enamuotor, the delegation presented their requests, seeking a postponement of the elections, a detailed election timetable, and a reduction in ticket fees.
In the letter, the UYSF expressed their solidarity greetings and introduced their organization as a fast-growing Urhobo youth group focused on advocacy, education, and productive engagement for the progress of the Urhobo nation. The letter outlined three major requests regarding the UPU Youth Wing elections, scheduled for October 28, 2023.
Postponement of Election Date: The UYSF requested a postponement of the election by at least four weeks, suggesting a new date of November 25, 2023. This extension, they argued, would allow contestants adequate time to engage stakeholders, campaign effectively, and gather necessary support.
Detailed Election Timetable: They urged the UPU Youth Wing election Committee to provide a detailed election timetable, including guidelines for campaigns, age limits, ticket purchase deadlines, voter eligibility criteria, and the location and time of the election. Clarity on these aspects would ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
Reduction in Ticket Fees: The UYSF appealed for a reduction in the ticket purchase fee from N200,000 to N100,000. They emphasized the importance of levelling the playing field, ensuring that candidates with limited financial resources but substantial capabilities could participate actively.
Additionally, the UYSF informed the UPU office of their plan to organize a virtual debate for all contestants on Sunday, October 15, 2023. They requested the presence of the UPU President General, his executive team, and the entire Election Committee at the event.
In response, President General Chief Barr Ese Gam acknowledged the UYSF’s concerns and appreciated their efforts. He clarified that the ticket fees were set collectively by the UPU members and couldn’t be altered. He directed the UYSF to contact the Chairman of the Electoral Committee for detailed modalities and guidelines. The PG commended the UYSF for organizing the proposed debate and expressed optimism about the positive impact of their mobilization efforts on the election.
The meeting concluded at the Law Chamber of the President General, marking a pivotal moment in the Urhobo youth community’s active engagement in the upcoming UPU Youth Wing elections. The Urhobo community eagerly awaits further developments regarding the election process, hopeful for a fair and inclusive representation of their youth in the UPU.
