Unity Party of Nigeria

political party, Nigeria

Also known as: UPN

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July 14, 2026

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The Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) was one of five political parties registered in Nigeria for the Second Republic, which began in 1979. This period saw a shift from a British-style parliamentary system to a presidential one, with the president needing to win a quarter of the votes in two-thirds of the federation's states. The UPN, led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was one of the major parties that promised to improve education and social services, rebuild the economy, and pursue an anti-imperialist foreign policy. Despite Awolowo's efforts, he was defeated in the 1979 and 1983 presidential elections by Shehu Shagari. The military seized power at the end of 1983, banning political parties once again.12

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Obafemi Awolowo
…as the leader of the Unity Party of Nigeria. He ran for president in the elections of 1979 and 1983 but was defeated both times by Shehu Shagari. Following a military coup at the end of 1983, parties were once again banned, and Awolowo retired from politics.
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…as the leader of the Unity Party of Nigeria. He ran for president in the elections of 1979 and 1983 but was defeated both times by Shehu Shagari. Following a military coup at the end of 1983, parties were once again banned, and Awolowo retired from politics.
Read More