Tompolo Calls for Ijaw Unity, Warns Against Destabilizing Bayelsa State, Endorses Fubara's Leadership in Rivers [VIDEO]

 

Gbaramatu, Delta State — Former militant leader and prominent Niger Delta figure, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has called for unity among Ijaw people and warned against any move that could destabilize Bayelsa State, which he described as the “only state” owned by the Ijaw ethnic nationality.

Speaking during an emotionally charged address at his 54th birthday celebration held in his hometown of Gbaramatu on Sunday, Tompolo took a firm yet conciliatory tone, reminding all Ijaw leaders and stakeholders that despite political differences, their shared heritage must always guide their decisions.

“I and Governor Douye Diri may differ in opinion,” he said pointedly, “but we are Ijaws, and we will always settle our differences. We must not allow temporary politics to tear apart what history and blood have joined together.”

The statement is being widely interpreted as a peace overture to the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, amid rumors of tension between both men due to recent political developments in the region. However, Tompolo made it clear that his loyalty to the Ijaw nation transcends personal interests or rivalries, emphasizing that internal disputes should not be allowed to damage the fragile unity of the ethnic group.

In a more fiery section of his address, Tompolo issued a stern warning to any person or group planning to stir unrest or political chaos in Bayelsa.

“We have only one state as Ijaws,” he declared. “If you try Bayelsa State, you will suffer. Anyone trying to bring division or chaos into Bayelsa is touching the heart of the Ijaw nation—and we will not take it lightly.”

The remarks drew thunderous applause from the gathered crowd, which included traditional rulers, youth leaders, ex-militant commanders, and political figures from across the Niger Delta.

Tompolo, a revered and sometimes controversial figure in Niger Delta affairs, also extended his support to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who is currently at the center of a political standoff with power blocs in the state.

“In Rivers State,” Tompolo said, “our son Siminalayi Fubara will return and sit on the throne.”

The phrase “sit on the throne” is being seen by political watchers as both symbolic and literal, pointing to Fubara’s embattled gubernatorial position and the growing regional sentiment that sees his leadership as a matter of ethnic pride for the Ijaw subgroup in Rivers State.

Tompolo’s speech comes at a time of rising political tensions across the Niger Delta, with Bayelsa and Rivers States facing internal party challenges, and the federal government pursuing renewed engagements with regional leaders to ensure peace and continued oil production.

Analysts note that Tompolo’s voice still carries significant weight among both the youth and traditional power structures in the Delta, especially after his pivotal role in establishing peace during the peak of militancy in the early 2000s.

In recent years, he has focused more on community development, environmental justice, and regional autonomy, though his influence remains a potent force in the region’s political dynamics.

Sunday’s event was more than just a birthday celebration—it was a political and cultural rallying point for the Ijaw nation. Attendees wore colorful traditional regalia, and a variety of Ijaw cultural performances—including the famous Egbesu war dance—punctuated the proceedings.

With oil politics, environmental degradation, and governance crises continuing to affect the region, Tompolo’s renewed call for unity and protection of Ijaw interests may well set the tone for future alliances and realignments.

“Let us remember who we are,” Tompolo said in closing. “Ijaw people are strong, wise, and proud. Let no one divide us—not now, not ever.”

As the drums faded and dignitaries dispersed into the creeks and cities they came from, one message was unmistakably clear: the Ijaw nation is watching—and it is not to be trifled with.