Mike Odeh James
The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has strongly criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its recent invitation of former militant leader and community figure, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo. The group alleges that the move may be politically motivated and aimed at undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s growing support in the South-South region.
In a press statement signed by its chapter chairman, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, UYAN expressed alarm at what it describes as the “suspicious timing” of the EFCC’s summons. The invitation, which reportedly reached Tompolo days after he publicly declared his endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term in 2027, has raised eyebrows among political observers and Niger Delta stakeholders.
“It is quite telling that this invitation comes shortly after High Chief Tompolo publicly declared his full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and urged the people of the Niger Delta to rally behind the President’s re-election bid in 2027,” Comrade Fajoye stated.
UYAN argues that the EFCC, an institution that should remain impartial and independent, risks being seen as a tool for political vendettas if it allows itself to be dragged into partisan conflicts. The youth association contends that the anti-graft agency’s move could ignite unnecessary tensions in a region that has historically played a vital role in the nation’s oil economy and political balance.
“The timing raises serious questions and lends credence to the belief that certain political actors who are opposed to President Tinubu’s growing popularity and acceptance—especially in the South-South—may be using state institutions to pursue a hidden agenda,” the statement added.
Tompolo: From Rebel to Regional Patriarch
Tompolo, a former Niger Delta militant commander and key actor in the Presidential Amnesty Programme under late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, has over the years transitioned into a respected community leader. He currently heads the Tantita Security Services, which has played a critical role in combating oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the region.
Tompolo’s support for President Tinubu, coming from a man who once wielded militant influence but has since become a stabilizing force in the Niger Delta, was seen by many as a political asset for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His endorsement, UYAN believes, reflects the increasing acceptance of President Tinubu’s leadership style and developmental agenda in the South-South.
“Tompolo is not only a respected leader but also a deeply loved figure in the Niger Delta,” said Comrade Fajoye. “Any attempt to intimidate or harass him will not only backfire but could also alienate a significant portion of the electorate from the ruling APC.”
A Growing Base for Tinubu in the Niger Delta
Since assuming office in 2023, President Tinubu has made deliberate moves to consolidate federal presence in the South-South through infrastructure development, oil sector reforms, and empowerment programs aimed at youth and women. Analysts suggest that these initiatives have begun to shift political loyalties in the region, which has traditionally been a stronghold of opposition parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
UYAN insists that rather than stoking suspicion, Tompolo’s endorsement should be welcomed as a sign of growing national unity and political maturity.
“President Tinubu is beginning to enjoy widespread support across the region due to his developmental initiatives and bold leadership style,” the group declared. “Tompolo’s endorsement is a reflection of this growing goodwill, and such a gesture should be seen as a unifying move rather than a threat.”
Call for Restraint and Democratic Stability
The youth association warned that any perceived targeting of political actors based on their loyalties could derail national unity and democratic stability, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.
“We urge the EFCC to tread with caution and exercise restraint,” UYAN appealed. “Nigeria cannot afford to descend into politically motivated witch-hunts, especially at a time when unity and stability are paramount.”
The statement concluded with a plea to national institutions to protect their integrity and remain above partisan maneuvering. “The EFCC must remain neutral and focus on its core mandate. Any deviation could have dire consequences not just for our democracy, but for national cohesion,” Comrade Fajoye said.
As debates continue around the invitation and its implications, the Niger Delta watches closely. With Tompolo representing both symbolic and strategic value in the political landscape, how the situation unfolds could have significant ramifications for the 2027 electoral cycle.
