Group defends Tompolo, others against defamation

The Centre for Civic Public Awareness (CCPA), a non-governmental organization, has warned beneficiaries of oil theft to stop defaming High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the group expressed concern about the activities of illegal oil bunkering, which has endangered lives, caused untimely deaths, and hindered national aspirations for increased crude oil production. The CCPA praised Tompolo and Otuaro for their unwavering stance against oil theft and protection of national assets, stating that their courage deserves recognition, not condemnation.

The group condemned "economic saboteurs" who have resorted to defaming Tompolo and his associates after they were denied access to crude oil. The CCPA called on the Police, DSS, and other authorities to take swift action against those spreading unverified and misleading information on social media, describing such acts as cyberbullying.

According to the group, Tompolo, Otuaro, and their associates have been targeted for their dedication to eliminating oil theft and vandalism in the Niger Delta, which has enriched the nation's economy and protected the environment. The CCPA noted that the sole complaint against Tompolo and his associates is that they have rendered those involved in oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism jobless.