The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), the apex socio-cultural body of the Urhobo Nation, has officially withdrawn its earlier opposition to the operations of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in Urhobo land.
This decision follows intense backlash from Urhobo youths who had openly criticized the UPU for its stance against the company’s handling of the oil pipeline surveillance contract.
The withdrawal was communicated through a statement issued on Monday, July 7, 2025, and signed by UPU President General, Ese Gam, alongside three other executive members.
The letter, titled “Withdrawal of Earlier Letter and Resolution of Issues Related to Tantita Security Operations in Urhobo Land,” was addressed to the National Security Adviser and published in Vanguard newspaper of July 8, 2025.
In the statement, the UPU acknowledged that its previous concerns were based on information that has now changed. It reads in part:
“The information available to us at the time of writing the initial letter has since changed. Based on updated insights and a broader understanding of the situation, we have engaged in constructive dialogue with Tantita Security Services in an effort to amicably resolve the issues previously raised.”
The Union added:
“In light of this development, we hereby formally withdraw our earlier letter dated 2nd June, which was acknowledged on 24th June by Mr. Isah Haruna.”
The UPU concluded by expressing appreciation to the National Security Adviser for his attention and ongoing support:
“We appreciate your attention to this matter and thank you for your continued support and commitment to peace and security in our region.”
This resolution signals a possible thaw in relations between the UPU and Tantita Security Services and may pave the way for enhanced cooperation in the protection of oil assets in Urhobo territory.
