Ex-militant leader Tompolo donates N10bn to Delta government

Former Niger Delta militant leader, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has donated N10 billion to support the Delta State Government.

Tompolo, who owns Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), made the announcement on Wednesday during the launch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, an initiative introduced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to strengthen the state’s security framework.

Speaking on Tompolo’s behalf, Chief Keston Pondi praised the governor for creating a system that allows the private sector to play a direct role in addressing security challenges.

“This is more than just a financial contribution. It’s a strategic investment in peace, progress, and the protection of lives and property,” Pondi said, pledging Tantita’s full backing for the initiative with a N10 billion donation.

Also present at the event, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, former CEO of Access Bank Plc, announced a N100 million personal donation from himself and his wife, Ofure. He expressed optimism that the Trust Fund could raise as much as N100 billion by 2025, noting that the launch marks the beginning of a long-term partnership for Delta’s security and growth.

Governor Oborevwori explained that the Security Trust Fund, originally established by law in 2013, was designed to attract private-sector funding to complement government investments in security. The Fund will prioritize acquiring surveillance equipment, patrol vehicles, communication tools, and the training of security personnel and vigilante groups across Delta’s 25 local government areas.

“Security is everyone’s responsibility,” the governor said. “Without safety, development cannot thrive. This Fund represents our collective commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable growth.”

The governor noted that his administration has rebranded Operation Delta Hawk as Operation Delta Sweep, a joint task force comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps. He added that the collaboration has led to significant breakthroughs, including the recovery of arms and ammunition from criminal groups.

Oborevwori, while highlighting broader government efforts, pointed to job creation, youth empowerment, and infrastructure renewal as key strategies for addressing the root causes of insecurity.

“Peace and security are sustained when citizens, especially youths and women, are economically engaged,” he said.

He revealed that 0.5% of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already being allocated monthly to the Trust Fund and urged continued private-sector support, assuring transparent management of all funds.

The event, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Asaba, was attended by top business and community leaders, including Jim Ovia, Chairman of Zenith Bank, and other prominent figures from the security and financial sectors.