EFCC Vows to Investigate Tompolo Over Alleged Naira Abuse: “Nobody is Above the Law”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared that Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, will face questioning following a viral video allegedly showing him engaging in naira abuse during his 54th birthday celebration in April 2025. The agency’s statement, posted on its official X handle, underscores its commitment to upholding the law, stating, “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer.”

The controversy erupted after a video, shared by X user @harreceipts, surfaced online, depicting Tompolo dancing while a man sprayed ₦1,000 naira notes on him at an event in Warri, Delta State. The act of spraying currency, a common cultural practice at Nigerian celebrations, violates Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007, which prohibits the defacement, mutilation, or abuse of naira notes, including spraying, dancing on, or trampling currency. Violators face fines, imprisonment, or both.

Public reaction on X was swift and polarized. Users like @OurFavOnlineDoc challenged the EFCC’s consistency, accusing the agency of selective enforcement. “EFCC, you’ve seen Tompolo spraying naira in that video. What are you going to do about it? Or is it only small fish you go after?” the user posted. Others, such as @NaijaActivist, amplified the call for accountability, tagging the EFCC and demanding action. The public outcry prompted the EFCC’s response, which has since garnered significant attention, with over 10,000 views on X.

Tompolo, a former militant leader turned businessman, has a history with the EFCC. In 2016, the agency issued an arrest warrant against him over allegations of money laundering and fraud involving ₦45.9 billion related to contracts with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Tompolo evaded arrest for months before the case was dismissed in 2017 due to the prosecution’s failure to proceed. His prominence in the Niger Delta, where he commands significant influence and runs a private security firm guarding oil pipelines, has made him a polarizing figure.

The EFCC’s latest move signals a renewed focus on high-profile cases amid growing public scrutiny of naira abuse. In recent years, the agency has prosecuted several individuals, including celebrities, for similar offenses. For instance, in 2024, socialite Cubana Chief Priest was fined ₦10 million for naira abuse, while actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin received a six-month sentence in 2023. The EFCC’s statement on Tompolo suggests that no one, regardless of status, is exempt from investigation.

However, the agency has not yet confirmed whether Tompolo has been formally summoned or if an arrest warrant has been issued. Sources close to the EFCC, speaking anonymously, indicated that the investigation is in its early stages, with the agency analyzing the video evidence and gathering witness statements. The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, declined to provide further details when contacted, stating only that “the commission will follow due process.”

On X, opinions remain divided. Supporters of Tompolo, such as @DeltaVoice, argue that the EFCC is targeting him unfairly, pointing to his contributions to peace and security in the Niger Delta. “Tompolo has done more for Nigeria than many politicians. Why go after him for a cultural practice?” the user wrote. Critics, however, see the case as a test of the EFCC’s impartiality. “If Tompolo walks free, it proves the law only applies to the poor,” posted @Justice4AllNG.

The case also highlights broader tensions around cultural practices and legal enforcement in Nigeria. Spraying money at events is deeply ingrained, particularly in southern Nigeria, but the Central Bank of Nigeria has intensified efforts to curb the practice, citing damage to currency and its association with money laundering. The EFCC’s crackdown reflects these priorities, though critics argue it distracts from larger financial crimes.

As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the EFCC to see how it handles Tompolo’s case. Will the agency pursue charges, or will the matter quietly fade, as some past cases have? For now, the EFCC’s bold declaration—“Nobody is above the law”—sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown with one of Nigeria’s most influential figures.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from X posts, web sources, and the EFCC’s official statement as of May 12, 2025. Developments in the case may evolve, and readers are encouraged to follow credible news outlets for updates.