EFCC Invites Tompolo Over Viral Naira Abuse Video After Public Outcry

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally invited former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for questioning following public outrage over a viral video allegedly showing him abusing the naira during a birthday celebration.

Sources within the EFCC confirmed that the invitation letter was delivered earlier this week, and the agency is currently awaiting his response. They stressed that the move is a procedural invitation, not an arrest warrant, but underscored the commission’s expectation of his cooperation.

The controversy stems from a video widely circulated on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), purportedly showing Tompolo dancing while being sprayed with ₦1,000 notes during what appeared to be his 54th birthday celebration in April. The act violates Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, which prohibits the spraying and mutilation of the naira, prescribing fines, imprisonment, or both as penalties.

The EFCC’s perceived delay in acting on the incident had sparked public criticism, with many accusing the agency of selective justice. While other public figures including Bobrisky, E-Money, Iyabo Ojo, and comedian AY have faced interrogation or prosecution for similar offences, Tompolo’s case had until now appeared overlooked.

This perceived inaction fueled broader concerns over the EFCC’s impartiality, particularly in light of Tompolo’s prominent status in the Niger Delta and his lucrative federal contract to protect oil pipelines.

In response to the backlash, the EFCC issued a statement on Monday, asserting that Tompolo would be investigated and reaffirming its stance that “nobody is above the law.”

Details of the investigation are yet to be made public.