The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday responded to a viral video showing former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, allegedly abusing the naira notes.
THE WHISTLER viewed the 50-second video, which showed Tompolo dressed in traditional attire, a white top, a red wrapper, and a feathered hat, dancing on N1,000 notes sprayed by an unidentified individual.
The video, reportedly recorded during Tompolo’s 54th birthday celebration in April, sparked widespread outrage online.
Nigerians criticised the EFCC for allegedly applying double standards in enforcing the law against naira abuse.
On social media, users questioned the agency’s silence.
A user on X (formerly Twitter), @OurFavOnlineDoc, sarcastically wrote: “Dear @officialEFCC, come out. Here is Tompolo mutilating the Naira.
“I know the eyes of that your eagle will suddenly go blind, but I am bringing this to your attention publicly so the whole world will see you are a shameless agency with double standards.”
The user continued, “Mutilation of the Naira is not just spraying the Naira. It is stepping on the currency, dancing on the currency and any activities that damage the integrity of the notes.
“I would expect that human beings with a working brain to ordinarily know something this simple and basic.
“But of course, moronic slaves committed to the defence of their oppressors won’t know this.”
@AgannaMatthew predicted that the EFCC would find a way to absolve Tompolo, stating, “Don’t go there, EFCC will explain that it’s not Tompolo abusing the naira and the person can’t be identified.”
Another X user, @Vinscante, a medical doctor, posted: “@officialEFCC una Good morning oh! Naira mutilation ongoing, I hope ur eyes are not too dull to see this one and ur arm not too short to go and make an arrest.”
@MeekRapheal added to the debate: “Okoya’s son is still walking freely, and you expect them to go for Tompolo? Their laws are only effective when the offender is not from the rich class. Same with every security agency in Nigeria — none is truly for the masses.”
Facing mounting criticism, the EFCC addressed the viral video via its official X handle. In a firm response, the agency wrote: “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer!”
THE WHISTLER recalls that the EFCC had previously arrested and questioned public figures for similar acts.
The most recent case involved Lagos socialite Emeka Okonkwo, popularly known as E-Money, whom the commission arrested over alleged naira abuse and the spraying of U.S. dollars at public events.
