Former Niger Delta warlord and leader of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has denied reports alleging that he issued a 21-day ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement released by his media consultant, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Tompolo described the reports circulating on social media as false, mischievous, and the handiwork of mischief-makers bent on tarnishing his reputation.
“Our attention has been drawn to a malicious and unfounded publication alleging that High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, issued an ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu. This is a total fabrication from the pit of falsehood. There is no iota of truth in it,” the statement read.
Dr. Bebenimibo further emphasized that Tompolo has no involvement whatsoever in the ongoing legal or political issues surrounding Nnamdi Kanu, adding that those spreading the story are enemies of progress who seek to sow discord between the ex-militant leader and the federal government.
“High Chief Tompolo is focused on his commitment to ensuring peace, stability, and security in the Niger Delta region. He remains a law-abiding citizen who supports the efforts of President Tinubu’s administration to promote national unity and economic development,” the statement added.
The statement urged members of the public to disregard the fake report and warned purveyors of false information to desist from dragging Tompolo’s name into matters unrelated to him.
Backgrounds
The controversy emerged after a viral post on social media claimed that Tompolo had given the federal government a 21-day ultimatum to release Nnamdi Kanu, who remains in detention facing charges of treasonable felony.
The post quickly gained traction online, prompting Tompolo’s team to issue a rebuttal.
Tompolo, who currently works with the federal government through his firm—Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited—in the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta, has maintained a cooperative relationship with the Tinubu administration.
Game Of Loyalty
By swiftly distancing himself from the alleged ultimatum, Tompolo not only reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu but also underscored his commitment to peace in the Niger Delta.
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His denial highlights the growing challenge of fake news and misinformation in Nigeria’s political landscape, where prominent figures are often targeted with fabricated statements to stir controversy.
