EFCC to grill Tompolo over alleged aaira abuse

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced its intention to interrogate former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo over alleged abuse of the Nigerian currency.

The agency made the announcement via a post on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Monday morning, declaring:

“Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer!”

This comes amid public outcry sparked by a viral video reportedly showing Tompolo being sprayed with N1,000 notes during his 54th birthday celebration, which reportedly took place in April. The footage, posted on Sunday by an X user identified as Harrison A (@harreceipts), shows the former warlord dancing while a guest throws bundles of cash over him an act prohibited by law.

The incident ignited widespread debate, with many Nigerians questioning whether the EFCC would treat Tompolo with the same legal rigor as it has others recently accused of similar offences.

Under Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, spraying, dancing, or stepping on the Naira constitutes currency abuse and is punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.

The EFCC has recently intensified its crackdown on naira abuse. In April 2024, social media influencer Idris Okuneye (Bobrisky) was sentenced to six months in prison without the option of a fine. Socialite Emeka “E-Money” Okonkwo, as well as celebrities Iyabo Ojo and Ayo Makun (AY), were also questioned. Earlier in January, billionaire heirs Wahab and Raheem Okoya were summoned over a promotional video involving naira spraying.

With Tompolo now in the spotlight, public attention has turned to the EFCC’s consistency in enforcing currency abuse laws—particularly when high-profile individuals are involved.