The party revolved around the political leadership of Obafemi Awolowo, a sometimes polemical politician but effective administrator.
However, the party's main difference with its competitors was not the leader but the ideals of a social democracy it was founded on.
The desired goal of the military government of Olusegun Obasanjo to build national political parties led to a gradual weakening of ethnic politics in the second republic.
The UPN, as well as the People's Redemption Party (PRP), presented the most coherent plan of action during the electioneering campaign of 1979.
The party jettisoned building a coalition of comfort in a polarized political environment, but based partnerships on the cooperation of like-minded advocates of democratic socialism.