Tompolo Set to Face the Music Over Naira Spraying Scandal
Investigative Action on Tompolo: EFCC Plans to Interrogate Him Regarding Naira Misuse
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced its intention to grill former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, over accusations of naira abuse. According to our reports, the anti-graft agency made this disclosure on X last Monday.
In their post, the EFCC stated emphatically, "No one is immune from the law; Tompolo will answer for his actions!" This declaration comes following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing Tompolo's birthday celebration, where naira notes were wantonly sprayed in violation of Nigerian currency laws.
The infamous video, shared by user Harrison A (@harreceipts on X.com), depicts Tompolo grooving as someone showers him with ₦1,000 notes during his 54th birthday party, rumored to have taken place in April. The incident sparked heated debates online, with many Nigerians questioning whether the EFCC would hold Tompolo accountable or simply turn a blind eye due to his considerable political and social influence.
Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act clearly forbids the spraying, dancing, or matching on the Naira or any banknote during social events. This unlawful act is punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
The EFCC has emphatically stated that defacing or spraying the Naira is a criminal offense and has made several high-profile arrests and prosecutions in recent months to back up this claim. For instance, controversial figure Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, was sentenced to six months in prison without an option of fine for similar offenses in April 2024. Soon after, socialite Emeka "E-Money" Okonkwo was apprehended for allegedly spraying both Naira and foreign currencies.
In the last week alone, popular actress Iyabo Ojo and comedian Ayo Makun (AY) were summoned for questioning by the EFCC over alleged currency abuse. Back in January, billionaire heirs Wahab and Raheem Okoya were also called in after featuring in a promotional video where Naira notes were blatantly sprayed.
With Tompolo's video now gaining traction, Nigerians are eagerly waiting to see whether the EFCC will maintain its consistency in enforcing the law or if influential figures will continue to escape justice.
- The Senate has been urged to pass stricter laws to combat currency abuse cases, especially after the recent incident involving Tompolo's naira spraying scandal.
- In response to the escalating crime-and-justice issues, President Tinubu has proposed a more robust policy-and-legislation agenda to cater to the increasing general-news concerns within Nigeria.
- The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also raised concerns over the EFCC's impartiality when it comes to high-profile cases such as Tompolo's naira spraying scandal, as some members perceive it as a targeting of opposition figures.
- However, the EFCC has defended its actions, stating that they treat every case equally, whether it involves a notable figure like Tompolo or the average citizen.
- In the light of these events, many Nigerians call for more transparency and accountability from both political parties and law enforcement agencies in dealing with cases of currency abuse and other criminal offenses.
- The Lagos State chapter of the PDP plans to organize seminars and workshops to educate individuals on the importance of adhering to currency laws and the consequences they face if they do not comply.
- As these cases continue to unfold, the atrocities committed by bandits and crime syndicates within Nigeria remain an ongoing concern for authorities, further challenging the country's political and social climate.
