The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally invited former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for questioning over alleged abuse of the Nigerian currency. The invitation follows the circulation of a viral video that captured Tompolo being lavishly sprayed with bundles of ₦1,000 notes during a recent public celebration.
A senior official within the anti-graft agency, who confirmed the development on Wednesday, stated that the invitation was part of ongoing investigations into violations of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which prohibits the abuse of the naira, including spraying, mutilating, or stepping on the currency.
“The Commission has sent out an invitation to Chief Government Ekpemupolo. This is in connection with the viral video involving the public abuse of the naira. The EFCC is committed to upholding the law without fear or favour, and nobody is above the law,” the source said.
This move comes amid heightened public scrutiny of the EFCC’s enforcement pattern, particularly after the agency recently arrested and prosecuted celebrities such as Bobrisky, E-Money, Iyabo Ojo, and comedian AY for similar infractions. Critics had accused the commission of selective enforcement, prompting questions over why influential figures like Tompolo had not been called to account.
Reacting to the backlash, the EFCC issued a statement last week reiterating its resolve to prosecute all cases of naira abuse and clarifying that investigations were underway. The commission noted that while the process may take time due to the need to verify details and gather evidence, all individuals found culpable would be made to face the full weight of the law.
Tompolo, who once commanded the now-defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), currently holds a multi-billion naira government security contract for the protection of oil pipelines in the region. His prominent role in national security operations has further fueled public interest in the EFCC’s handling of the matter.
The EFCC’s invitation is not an arrest warrant, but Tompolo is expected to present himself before investigators in Abuja for questioning. There is yet no indication of when he is scheduled to appear.
As the investigation unfolds, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the anti-corruption agency will remain consistent in its approach to enforcing financial regulations, especially regarding the symbolic integrity of the national currency.
The Central Bank of Nigeria and the EFCC have both maintained that spraying or mishandling the naira at public functions is an offence punishable under Section 21 of the CBN Act 2007, and culprits could face imprisonment or hefty fines.
This development adds another layer to the ongoing national conversation around accountability, elite privilege, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
