BY KELVIN ONYEKACHUKWU, ASABA
DELTA: A human rights activist based in Warri, Delta State, Comrade Israel Joe, has strongly dismissed claims that ex-Niger Delta agitator and high chief, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has a case to answer before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Joe made the remarks on Wednesday during an interview in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, in reaction to media reports quoting the EFCC as saying Tompolo was under investigation for allegedly abusing the Nigerian currency at a recent public event.
“When it comes to criminal matters, it must be based on facts and evidence,” Joe said. “You cannot accuse someone of naira abuse just because a video surfaced online. The EFCC must establish the authenticity of the notes used, including serial numbers, before laying any charge.”
The activist further argued that the viral video in question did not show Tompolo spraying money, but rather other individuals doing so while he was merely present.
“According to the EFCC, he stepped on the notes that were sprayed by others. That alone does not amount to abuse of the naira or establish any criminal liability. Tompolo is not the one spraying money. So what case does he have with the EFCC?” he queried.
Joe accused the EFCC of abandoning its core responsibility of tackling systemic corruption and financial crimes, and instead going after individuals in a manner he described as selective and vindictive.
“We don’t want selective vindictiveness. That’s what the EFCC has been known for over time,” he said. “They should redirect their energy to investigating their former chairmen, including the immediate past chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa, who has several allegations hanging over him.”
The activist concluded by calling on the EFCC to restore public trust by focusing on genuine anti-corruption efforts rather than sensational pursuits of high-profile names without concrete evidence.
“Tompolo remains a respected figure in the Niger Delta, and dragging his name in the mud without facts does a disservice to justice,” Joe added.