In a move that has sparked widespread controversy, former Niger Delta unrepentant militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, recently donated a staggering 10 billion naira to the Delta State Security Trust Fund. While the donation was aimed at bolstering security in the state, it has been met with skepticism and outrage, with many questioning the motives behind such a generous gesture. Critics argue that the donation is nothing more than a calculated attempt to cover up a litany of alleged crimes, including human rights abuses, illegal oil bunkering, and complicity in the deaths of innocent Nigerians.  

Tompolo, a polarizing figure in the Niger Delta region, has long been accused of operating a private prison where he allegedly detained members of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and other ethnic groups. Reports suggest that security agencies turned a blind eye to these activities, allowing Tompolo to act with impunity. His alleged crimes extend beyond the confines of his private prison, with accusations of forced labor, human trafficking, and even ritual killings. Despite these grave allegations, Tompolo has managed to work freely, raising questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.  

The former unrepentant militant leader’s involvement in illegal oil bunkering has further tarnished his reputation. Tompolo, who was controversially awarded a pipeline security contract by the federal government, stands accused of being at the center of Nigeria’s oil theft crisis. Investigations reveal that he allegedly colluded with officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), including former boss Mele Kyari, to siphon crude oil from the nation’s pipelines. This collusion has been blamed for the persistent decline in Nigeria’s oil production, which has had a devastating impact on the country’s economy.  

Tompolo’s alleged crimes have not gone unnoticed by the people of the Niger Delta. Many have expressed outrage over his actions, particularly his sidelining of individuals involved in illegal bunkering activities in the past. Women and Men who depended on these activities to feed their families have come out en masse to complain bitterly, stating that they have been abandoned for over three years. Their children are out of school, and they are struggling to survive. Yet, Tompolo, who allegedly deprived them of their livelihoods, has 10 billion naira to “give away” in the name of a donation why his own people are dying of starvation.

In Bayelsa State, Tompolo’s alleged atrocities have left a trail of devastation. He is accused of kidnapping two notable Bayelsans, Charles Korubo and Bala Karowei, who remain missing and are feared dead in his private prison. Despite these grave allegations, the Delta State Government has accepted his donation, raising questions about its commitment to security, justice and accountability.  

Tompolo’s alleged role in inciting violence in the Niger Delta has further compounded his troubles. The crisis between the Okoloba and Okuama communities, which resulted in the deaths of five youths, has been attributed to his Tantita Security operatives. The situation escalated when Nigerian soldiers were killed in Okuama, leading to the burning of the community and the killing of several youths in Ogbamotoro, Bayelsa State. Eyewitnesses claim that Tompolo’s actions were aimed at consolidating power and control over the region, even at the cost of innocent lives.  

Moreover, Tompolo’s handling of the pipeline security contract has been marred by controversy. Instead of training his operatives to act professionally, he allegedly recruited individuals with criminal backgrounds, including armed robbers, assassins, and drug addicts. This lack of oversight has resulted in widespread abuses, including the beating, kidnapping, and beheading of innocent Nigerians.  

In the end, Tompolo’s 10 billion naira donation appears to be driven by fear rather than genuine contribution. His alleged crimes against humanity have left a dark cloud hanging over his legacy, and many believe that justice must be served to his victims. Instead of accepting his donation, the Delta State Government should hold him accountable for the destruction of Okuama and bring him to book for his human rights abuses across the region. 

As the controversy surrounding Tompolo’s donation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of the Niger Delta deserve justice, and no amount of money can erase the pain and suffering he has allegedly caused. The federal government and law enforcement agencies must act swiftly to investigate these allegations and ensure that those responsible for these crimes are brought to justice. Until then, Tompolo’s legacy will remain tainted by the blood of the innocent and the cries of those who have been wronged.

Timipre Agalabiri Writing From Bayelsa State.