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On April 12, 2025, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, often known as Tompolo, made headlines with remarks on the political climate in Rivers State during a raucous celebration of his 54th birthday in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.

Speaking to a group of Ijaw leaders and community people, the former militant leader—now a peace advocate—emphasized his close ties to Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and the former governor of Rivers State.

Tompolo acknowledged Wike’s role in helping Siminalayi Fubara become governor, saying, “I consider Wike to be my friend throughout the entire Ijaw Nation.” He remarked, “When this boy Fubara was appointed to the position of governor, there was no Ijaw representation present,” highlighting a worry over how the Ijaw community contributed to Fubara’s rise.

Rich in Ijaw cultural customs, the celebration brought to light Tompolo’s enduring influence within the Ijaw community, one of Rivers State’s 23 ethnic groups that has always struggled with political representation.

Tompolo claimed that Wike’s ascent to power was greatly aided by the support of the Ijaw people, underscoring the complex political landscape of the region.

Given the current circumstances surrounding the Wike-Fubara dispute, which began in 2023 over the political structure of Rivers State, Tompolo expressed his confidence in Fubara’s eventual reinstatement, saying, “Our son Siminalayi Fubara will return and sit on the throne.”

The ceremony emphasized Tompolo’s importance as a key player in Niger Delta politics, adeptly navigating coalitions and resolving conflicts in an area known for its longstanding struggles with representation and resource management.

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