- Jonathan meets Tompolo in Otuoke to discuss Niger Delta peace efforts.
- He praises Tompolo’s contributions to regional stability and oil security.
- Meeting sparks talks over Tompolo’s growing ties with Tinubu ahead of 2027.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, on Friday, hosted Niger Delta activist and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, at his residence in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The meeting, which began shortly after noon, had in attendance Hon. Joshua Maciver, the 2023 Deputy Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa, and Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services, among others.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Jonathan said he invited Tompolo following growing concerns from some quarters about developments in the Niger Delta region. He noted that the discussions centered on sustaining peace and ensuring inclusiveness among communities in the oil-rich region.
“Since I left office, we have not seen. Tompolo is one young man who played a key role in uniting our people,” Jonathan said. “Today’s visit is important because he’s handling security issues in the Niger Delta. I visited his camp as Vice President to help restore peace then, and there are ongoing issues people have raised. I decided to call him so that we can discuss how everyone can be carried along to ensure continued peace in the Niger Delta.”
The former president also praised Tompolo for his role in safeguarding oil facilities and maintaining stability in the region. “He has contributed significantly to peace in the Niger Delta and the protection of oil installations. I appreciate his efforts and his visit,” he added.
The meeting, however, stirred political discussions as observers linked it to Tompolo’s increasing visibility in national politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. Once a strong ally of Jonathan, Tompolo has in recent times expressed support for President Bola Tinubu, even appearing in a viral video urging Nigerians to re-elect him in 2027.
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