A viral video allegedly showing ex-militant leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, at his birthday celebration has ignited public outrage, with many Nigerians calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take action against him for alleged naira abuse.
The footage, shared on X.com on Sunday by user Harrison A (@harreceipts), captures Tompolo dancing as someone sprays N1,000 notes before him during what is said to be his 54th birthday party held in April.
Under Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007 (as amended), spraying, dancing on, or otherwise defacing the naira constitutes an offence punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
The EFCC has repeatedly warned against such actions and recently stepped up enforcement.
In April, the anti-graft agency secured the conviction of crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months in prison for naira abuse.
Likewise, in May, popular businessman Emeka Okonkwo (aka E-Money) was arrested for allegedly spraying dollars at a public event. Also, celebrities like Iyabo Ojo and comedian Ayo Makun were questioned over similar offences.
In January, Wahab and Raheem Okoya, sons of billionaire businessman Razaq Okoya, were invited by the EFCC after a video surfaced of them spraying money during a music video shoot.
However, the emergence of Tompolo’s video has sparked accusations of selective justice. Nigerians have taken to social media, accusing the EFCC of turning a blind eye to high-profile figures.
“Once e reach their Oga and him friends, EFCC go turn EF-Blind-Blind,” user @NejeebBello tweeted.
Another, @General_Somto, mocked, “Eagle Eye Don Blind.”
On Facebook, Chikodiri Emeluwa said, “Tompolo is not a soft target. EFCC no go near am. They only go for soft targets.” Esther Mabiaku added, “They arrest E-Money because him leg touch naira. Ok, now Tompolo dey waka on top naira. If dem born EFCC well make dem reach there.”
Others argued in Tompolo’s defence, stating he neither sprayed the money nor instigated the act. “How is Tompolo mutilating the naira? From the video, he’s just dancing. Abi na Tompolo dey spray the money or na my eye dey pain me?” asked @AD_Oluwaseun001.
As the video continues to trend, pressure mounts on the EFCC to act, as many are saying that the commission’s response could either reinforce or undermine public trust in its impartiality.
