The prominent leader of the Egbema Brotherhood (EBH), Promise Lawuru, has cautioned the leadership of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) against divisive politics, urging them instead to embrace a unifying and fatherly role on matters of national and regional importance.
Lawuru, popularly known as “Ozigizaga,” made the appeal during a press interaction at his Egbema residence over the weekend. He was reacting to a recent statement credited to the UPU, calling for the termination of the federal government’s security pipeline contract with Tantita Security Services, operated by former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo.
Describing the UPU’s position as regrettable and counterproductive, Lawuru said such moves risk eroding the credibility of the union, which he described as a respected voice of the Urhobo people.
“Rather than calling for the revocation of the Tantita contract, I urge the UPU to rise above personal or ethnic sentiments and act as a father figure in the Niger Delta region,” Lawuru said. “The Urhobo, Ijaw, and Itsekiri are brothers and should work in solidarity. Security of our oil assets is a shared responsibility, and Tantita has engaged many Urhobo sons who work across Ijaw territories.”
He stressed that attempts to undermine the gains made by Tantita not only harm the region’s unity but could trigger reciprocal actions. “If the Ijaw decide to stop Urhobo people from operating in their communities, what message are we sending? We’re interconnected. We must support any initiative that enhances our common interest,” he added.
Lawuru went on to highlight the significant strides made since Tantita Security Services began operations, especially in curbing oil theft and improving national oil output.
“Before Tantita’s intervention, illegal bunkering was rampant. Today, production has risen to 1.7 to 2 million barrels per day. This boost has translated into increased revenue for state governments. In Delta, for instance, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is executing multiple flyover projects simultaneously—this is made possible by the improved oil revenue,” he explained.
According to him, scrapping the security contract would be a step backward. “It’s not just about a company; Tantita is protecting critical national infrastructure. Cancelling the contract would endanger both regional stability and national economic growth,” Lawuru warned.
He further urged the UPU to focus on fostering peace and supporting structures that promote development. “Let’s not reduce ourselves to petty quarrels. The UPU must take the high road—championing unity, progress, and the wellbeing of all Niger Deltans,” he said.
