FOLLOWING public outcry over alleged Naira abuse, as shown in a viral video, during the recent celebration of his birthday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), according to sources, has reportedly sent a letter of invitation to former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for questioning.
The letter, it was gathered, was delivered this week and the Commission is awaiting his response over allegations of naira abuse and financial misconduct, SaharaReporters has learnt.
According to sources within the anti-graft agency who spoke with SaharaReporters on Wednesday, the letter was delivered earlier this week, and the commission is now awaiting Tompolo’s response.
It was further gathered that the invitation, which is procedural and not an arrest warrant, even though he was expected to cooperate.
The viral video showed Tompolo celebrating his 54th birthday in April this year, dancing while another man sprayed him with bundles of ₦1,000 notes, a direct violation of Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, which prohibits the spraying or mutilation of Naira notes at social events. Contravention attracts fines, imprisonment, or both.
After the video trended, the EFCC was challenged to dare arrest Tompolo, if it is serious with the fight against Naira abuse, with many accusing it of selective justice.
The antigraft agency has in a statement on Monday, May 12, said Tompolo would be investigated, declaring: “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer.”
It had on several ocassions warned that it will not tolerate the defacing of the Naira, insisting it remained committed to upholding the law, regardless of social status or political ties.
Recall that celebrities, including Bobrisky, E-Money, Iyabo Ojo and AY have been questioned or charged to court for similar offences.
Details of the investigation remain unclear.
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