The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to investigate former Niger Delta militant leader Government ‘Tompolo’ Ekpemupolo, following a viral video showing alleged naira abuse during his 54th birthday celebration in April. The video, which surfaced online, depicts Tompolo dancing while individuals sprayed and stepped on N1,000 notes, prompting public outcry and accusations of selective law enforcement against the EFCC.

Nigerians challenged the anti-graft agency to arrest and prosecute Tompolo, referencing Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007, which criminalizes acts such as spraying, dancing on, or stepping on the naira. Violators face a minimum of six months’ imprisonment, a fine of no less than N50,000, or both. Netizens accused the EFCC of applying the law selectively and demanded impartiality in Tompolo’s case.

In response, the EFCC assured the public that Tompolo would be held accountable, stating, "Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer." This declaration followed intensified scrutiny and pressure from social media users who questioned the EFCC's integrity and commitment to enforcing the law equally.

The EFCC has recently intensified its campaign against naira abuse, prosecuting several high-profile individuals. In April 2024, controversial crossdresser Idris Olarewaju ‘Bobrisky’ Okuneye was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for naira abuse. Similarly, Instagram celebrity Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, was arrested and arraigned for the same offense. Additionally, socialite Emeka Daniel (E-Money), actress Iyabo Ojo, comedian Ayo Makun (AY), and Wahab and Raheem Okoya, sons of billionaire Razaq Okoya, have faced questioning or arrest in connection with currency spraying allegations.

The EFCC's recent actions and statements underscore its commitment to curbing naira abuse, despite challenges and public skepticism regarding impartiality. The investigation into Tompolo’s alleged offense will serve as a test case for the agency’s resolve to enforce the CBN Act and hold all individuals accountable, regardless of their status.

Tompolo, who chairs Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, responsible for oil pipeline surveillance in the Niger Delta, faces scrutiny under Section 21(3) of the CBN Act 2007. This section explicitly prohibits spraying, dancing on, or matching on the Naira, with violations subject to penalties including fines and imprisonment.