Tompolo’s N4bn monthly contract sparks controversy
Tompolo, a former militant leader, is facing opposition to the N4billion monthly pipeline surveillance contract the federal government awarded him. Tompolo, whose real name is Government Ekpemupolo, is said to have been awarded a contract to protect oil installations in Akwa Ibom state.
But, aggrieved former militants from the state are urging the government to revoke the contract, else they will lead a protest.
In their letter to President Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), signed Johnson Solomon, and Godwin Edohoaqua, the former militants said the authorities earlier assured them they would benefit from government contract award.
“It is wrong for the Federal Government to shortchange the youths of Akwa Ibom State by awarding such a bogus contract to a sectional former leader of ex-militants while oil and gas pipelines crosses our land but we are not engaged, we won’t accept such marginalisation.
“We are familiar with the terrain and pipeline routes running across the state and only youths from the state can protect the pipelines better than a visitor. If our youths are engaged in such a project, the rate of unemployment will reduce.
“We are giving the Federal Government a seven day ultimatum to address the situation or we will embark on a marathon protest that will shut down oil and gas production in Akwa Ibom State,” the letter stated.
