Fresh controversy has emerged in the Niger Delta following a viral statement attributed to a supporter of Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
In the circulating remarks, the individual allegedly called out what he described as ongoing illegal crude oil activities in Rivers State, claiming that government officials are involved in unauthorized crude loading operations.
“Chief Tompolo, you asked us to stop stealing crude oil, but these are government officials going to load crude oil illegally. Everyone is collecting contracts and keeping quiet,” the supporter said.
The statement appears to question the effectiveness and sincerity of anti-oil theft efforts in the region, particularly amid ongoing federal crackdowns on crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Chief Tompolo has previously been associated with efforts aimed at combating oil theft in the Niger Delta, especially through pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to private security outfits.
At the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from government authorities or Chief Tompolo regarding the allegations.
The comments have sparked renewed debate over transparency, enforcement consistency, and the broader fight against crude oil theft in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.
