Nigerians have challenged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly turning a blind eye to former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, after a video surfaced showing him engaging in naira abuse.
The video, which has now gone viral on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), shows Tompolo at what appeared to be his 54th birthday celebration in April. In the footage shared by user @harreceipts, the ex-militant is seen dancing while another man showers him with bundles of ₦1,000 notes, a clear violation of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act. Section 21(3) of the Act criminalizes the spraying, dancing on, or defacing of naira notes at social events and stipulates penalties that may include fines, imprisonment, or both.
What has infuriated many Nigerians is the EFCC’s perceived silence on the matter. Social media users, celebrities, and civil society commentators have questioned why Tompolo has not been arrested or invited for questioning, especially when several other high-profile Nigerians have recently faced the full wrath of the law for similar offenses.
In 2024 alone, controversial internet personality Bobrisky was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to six months in prison for naira abuse. Lagos socialite E-Money was arrested for allegedly spraying foreign currencies, while popular figures like Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo and comedian AY were recently questioned by the EFCC over currency-related offenses.
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The viral post calling out the EFCC stated: “Here is Tompolo mutilating the Naira. I know the eyes of that your eagle will suddenly go blind but I am bringing this to your attention publicly so the whole world will see you are a shameless agency with double standards.”
This growing wave of criticism has led to a national debate over the EFCC’s consistency and impartiality. Many are accusing the anti-graft agency of applying the law selectively, going after celebrities and influencers while avoiding powerful figures like Tompolo, who some believe enjoys political immunity due to his influence in the Niger Delta region and possible ties to top government officials.
As the video continues to gain traction, Nigerians are daring the EFCC to prove its credibility and restore public confidence by taking immediate action against Tompolo, just as it has done with others.
