Efcc Chairman Cautions Public Against Rushed Judgement On Tompolo Over Alleged Naira Abuse
Abuja, Nigeria – May 26, 2025
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerians to exercise restraint and avoid jumping to conclusions over the recent allegations of naira abuse involving former militant leader and businessman, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
Olukoyede made the appeal during an interview on TVC News on Sunday, addressing growing public concern and widespread reactions following the circulation of a viral video from Tompolo’s 54th birthday celebration. The video in question showed Tompolo dancing while a man nearby was seen spraying bundles of N1,000 notes—an act that has been widely criticized as a violation of Nigeria’s currency laws, which prohibit the mutilation or abuse of the naira.
The clip quickly sparked outrage on social media and in public discourse, with many Nigerians demanding that the EFCC take swift and decisive action. Some critics questioned whether the anti-graft agency would treat the case with the same urgency it applies to other offenders, while others accused the Commission of potential bias or selective justice.
In response, Olukoyede affirmed that the EFCC had already taken proactive steps by inviting Tompolo for questioning. He reiterated that no individual, regardless of status or influence, is above the law. However, he stressed that investigations are still ongoing and warned against convicting Tompolo in the court of public opinion before the matter is fully investigated and concluded.
“We have invited Tompolo. This is public knowledge. The EFCC has always maintained that no one is above the law, regardless of their social or political standing,” Olukoyede said. “But at the same time, we must not rush to condemn anyone based on allegations alone. As of now, what we have is merely an allegation, not an established fact.”
Olukoyede also revealed that the Commission had commenced a forensic analysis of the viral video to determine its authenticity. He pointed out that in today’s digital age, video content can easily be manipulated or taken out of context, underscoring the need for careful and thorough scrutiny before drawing conclusions.
“We live in an era where videos can be edited or superimposed to create false narratives. For this reason, we have subjected the video to detailed forensic analysis to ensure we are working with verified evidence,” he explained.
The EFCC chairman emphasized the importance of allowing the Commission to carry out its duties without external pressure or undue interference. He noted that the rule of law remains the guiding principle for all EFCC investigations and that the public will be informed of the outcome once the process is complete.
Olukoyede’s remarks come amid increasing scrutiny of public officials and high-profile individuals accused of violating Nigeria’s financial and anti-corruption laws. The EFCC has in recent months intensified its crackdown on naira abuse, arresting several celebrities and event organizers caught on camera spraying or mishandling the national currency.
The call for due process in Tompolo’s case reflects a broader appeal for balanced and fair law enforcement, particularly in a climate where public trust in justice institutions is often tested.
As investigations continue, the EFCC has assured Nigerians that it remains committed to impartiality, professionalism, and transparency in handling all cases, regardless of the personalities involved.