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Secret Wike, Fubara Talks May Lead To Governor’s Return
By Gideon Ayeni
Former militant leader and ex-MEND commander, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has finally spoken out on the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, declaring unwavering support for the embattled Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Tompolo, who turned 54 on Sunday, who disclosed that talks between Governor Fubara and his erstwhile mentor, Nyesom Wike were ongoing, spoke at the Aziza Temple in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, where friends, associates, and traditional rulers joined him in celebrating his birthday.
Breaking his long silence on the Rivers crisis, Tompolo addressed growing concerns among the Ijaw people over his perceived neutrality. He reassured the Ijaw nation of his loyalty and said he has spent his entire life fighting for their cause. “I am not a betrayer. I have never betrayed the Ijaw people,” he declared.
Speaking further, Tompolo acknowledged his close relationship with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who has been at the center of the crisis with Governor Fubara. However, he urged the Ijaw people to rise above recent controversial comments made by Wike, which sparked outrage in the Niger Delta.
“We should not be dragged into unnecessary conflicts,” Tompolo said, adding that the Ijaw nation has grown beyond ethnic sentiments and should remain focused on unity and development.
He revealed that reconciliation talks between Wike and Fubara are already underway, and expressed optimism that peace would soon return. “Fubara will return. Talks are ongoing, and I believe this storm will pass,” he assured.
Tompolo also reaffirmed the Ijaw people’s strength and resilience, saying they could never be conquered. He added that he was always ready to defend his people, reminding the crowd that he had “never lost a battle.”
On national issues, Tompolo urged the Niger Delta to support President Bola Tinubu, saying the president means well for the region and has shown signs of goodwill toward the Ijaw nation.
Addressing the controversy surrounding INEC’s ward delineation in Warri, he emphasized the need for unity between the Ijaws and Itsekiris. “We are not enemies. We share history, heritage, and land. No one should divide us,” he stated, backing his words with population and historical data.
Tompolo also warned against any attempts to destabilize Bayelsa State, saying such moves would be strongly resisted. While acknowledging political differences with Governor Douye Diri, he stressed the need for solidarity and mutual defense among Ijaw leaders and communities.
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