EFCC Invites Tompolo Over Viral Naira Abuse Video Amid Public Outcry
Abuja, May 14, 2025 – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially invited former Niger Delta militant leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for questioning over a viral video showing him abusing the Nigerian naira. The invitation follows widespread public backlash and demands for accountability after footage surfaced of Tompolo dancing while bundles of ₦1,000 notes were lavishly sprayed on him during his 54th birthday celebration in April.
Details of the Invitation and Investigation
Sources within the EFCC confirmed that an official invitation letter was delivered to Tompolo earlier this week. The invitation is a procedural step in the ongoing investigation and is not an arrest warrant. The EFCC expects Tompolo to cooperate with the commission as part of its enforcement of currency abuse laws.
An EFCC insider stated, “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer.” The commission’s action aligns with Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007 (as amended), which prohibits spraying, dancing on, or defacing the naira during social occasions, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
Public Reaction and Calls for Equal Enforcement
The viral video reignited debates on social media about selective enforcement of naira abuse laws, with many Nigerians pointing out that celebrities such as Bobrisky, E-Money, Iyabo Ojo, and comedian AY have been summoned or prosecuted for similar offenses, while Tompolo appeared to have evaded scrutiny until now.
The EFCC’s decision to invite Tompolo followed intense public pressure demanding that the anti-corruption agency apply the law impartially, regardless of status or influence.
Previous High-Profile Cases
The EFCC has recently intensified its crackdown on naira abuse, arresting and questioning several high-profile individuals:
- Emeka Okonkwo (E-Money) was arrested for spraying naira and U.S. dollars at public events.
- Actress Iyabo Ojo and comedian Ayo Makun (AY) were grilled over currency spraying at a wedding.
- Socialite Idris Okuneye (Bobrisky) was sentenced to six months in prison in 2024 for similar offenses.
- TikTok influencer Murja Kunya and nightlife promoter Pascal Okechukwu (Cubana Chief Priest) have also faced EFCC scrutiny.
Central Bank and EFCC Stance
The Central Bank of Nigeria has outlawed the spraying and mutilation of currency in public, emphasizing the importance of preserving the naira’s dignity as a symbol of national sovereignty. The EFCC has pledged to enforce these laws with renewed vigor amid growing scrutiny of high-profile offenders.
As of press time, Tompolo has not publicly responded to the EFCC’s invitation.
