EFCC Summons Ex-Militant Leader Tompolo Over Alleged Naira Abuse, Financial Crimes

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally invited former Niger Delta warlord and influential figure, Chief Government Ekpemupolo—popularly known as Tompolo—for questioning as part of ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct and abuse of the Nigerian currency, the naira.

This development comes amid growing concerns over increasing incidents of currency abuse, a trend that the anti-graft agency has vowed to clamp down on. Sources from within the EFCC confirmed that a letter was sent to Tompolo earlier this week, with officials stressing that the move remains a standard procedural step in line with the agency’s investigative mandate.

Tompolo, a prominent figure in the post-amnesty reintegration program for former Niger Delta militants, has kept a relatively low profile in recent years, focusing on regional development and advocacy. His latest brush with federal authorities, however, signals that he may again be thrust into the national spotlight, this time under the glare of a corruption probe.

According to an EFCC official who spoke to SaharaReporters under condition of anonymity, the invitation is not tantamount to an arrest warrant. “An invitation letter has been sent to Tompolo,” the source disclosed. “We expect his cooperation. This is procedural, not confrontational.”

The EFCC’s latest action is reportedly tied to a recent viral video that allegedly captured acts of naira abuse, prompting a public statement from the agency reiterating its stance that "nobody is above the law." While the statement did not explicitly mention names, insiders have suggested that the video and subsequent investigations pointed to individuals closely linked to recent high-profile celebrations in the Niger Delta region, one of which reportedly featured Tompolo.

Public reactions have been mixed. While some view the invitation as a necessary step toward accountability and financial discipline, others see it as a politically charged move, given Tompolo’s influence in the South-South geopolitical zone.

Legal analysts observing the case noted that an invitation of this nature, particularly when handled discreetly, is a typical first step in investigations of financial impropriety. It allows the individual involved to present their side of the story before further legal steps are taken. “An invitation is not an indictment,” said Lagos-based attorney Ifeanyi Umeh. “It’s a call to assist in clarifying certain matters. It becomes more serious if the individual refuses to honor it.”

The EFCC has increasingly turned its attention to issues of naira abuse, especially as authorities ramp up efforts to reinforce respect for the nation’s currency and financial systems. Recent weeks have seen a number of celebrities, politicians, and businesspersons come under scrutiny over social media videos that appear to show them spraying money or engaging in other forms of currency defacement.

With Nigeria’s financial regulators under pressure to tighten monetary discipline and reestablish respect for legal tender, the EFCC’s decision to pursue high-profile figures allegedly involved in naira abuse reflects a broader strategy to send a clear message.

As of the time of filing this report, Tompolo’s camp had not issued any official response. However, the EFCC has expressed confidence that he will respond appropriately and cooperate with the investigation.

What lies ahead for the former militant leader remains to be seen. For now, the spotlight is once again on Tompolo—not as a symbol of regional rebellion or peacebuilding, but as a key figure in a financial investigation with national implications.