In a historic moment for the Udu people, the Union of Udu Communities (UUC) successfully conducted its long-awaited election at the Ovie’s Palace in Otor-Udu, Delta State.
The election, which saw the inauguration of a new executive council, marked the resolution of a prolonged leadership tussle that had divided the UUC into two factions.
The crisis, which resulted in the emergence of two rival President-Generals—Moses Upran and Austin Emaduku—was amicably resolved following the intervention of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. Demonstrating his commitment to his administration’s MORE Agenda—Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security—the governor facilitated a fresh election to establish a unified leadership for the Udu Kingdom. This decisive action led to the emergence of Evangelist Andrew Dokie as the President-General of the UUC.
Other elected officials include Chief Diamond Egbeta as 1st Vice President-General, Deacon Nigeria Okorode as 2nd Vice President-General, Oshue Clement as Secretary-General, Goddey Joseph as Publicity Secretary, and Okoro E. Osiobe as Treasurer.
During the inauguration of the new executive members, the Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Hon. Vincent Oyibode, underscored the local government’s dedication to fostering unity and peace among the Udu people. He echoed Governor Oborevwori’s emphasis on mediation and dialogue as essential tools for sustainable peace and development, aligning with the MORE Agenda’s pillar of enhanced peace and security.
“Today, we stand as one body, united in our commitment to progress and development. We are working together, irrespective of political affiliation, to build a better future for Udu,” Oyibode declared.
He further reaffirmed the local government’s zero tolerance for land disputes, cultism, and other threats to peace in the region. Security agencies were commended for their efforts in maintaining law and order, with a call for continued community support for the police and other security forces.
In his inaugural address, newly elected President-General Evangelist Andrew Dokie expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his intervention in resolving the crisis. He called for unity among the Udu people, emphasizing the need to work collectively to preserve cultural heritage, improve security, and strengthen relationships with the government.
Dokie also paid tribute to past Udu leaders for their sacrifices, acknowledging the contributions of the Udu community in North America in promoting the kingdom’s development.
The peaceful conduct of the election has been widely praised by key figures, including the Otota of Udu Kingdom, High Chief Sam Odibo, who described the transition as a “victory for all Udu people.”
With the new executive council in place, the Udu community now looks forward to a new chapter of peace, progress, and collective growth. The resolution of the leadership crisis, facilitated by the Delta State Government’s MORE Agenda, has not only strengthened the unity of the Udu people but also set the stage for sustainable development in the region Oyibode added.
