In a ceremony held at Oporoza Community, headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) bestowed the “Internal Security meritorious award” upon former freedom fighter High Chief Oweizide Government Ekpemupolo, known as Tompolo. The award recognized Tompolo’s significant contributions to securing oil and gas infrastructure in Nigeria, particularly in combating oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other illicit activities in the Niger Delta region.
NUJ National President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, presented the award to Tompolo, emphasizing the Union’s acknowledgment of his patriotic dedication to restoring stability in Nigeria. Dr. Isiguzo remarked, “The NUJ having properly profiles the activities of Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Alias Tompolo, the Union is impressed with his patriotic zeal to ensure that Nigeria works again.”
Highlighting Tompolo’s role in maintaining peace in the Niger Delta, Dr. Isiguzo stressed the importance of collective responsibility in enhancing national security. He urged all Nigerians to collaborate with security agencies to foster development and prosperity.
In his acceptance speech, Tompolo expressed gratitude to the NUJ leadership for the honor bestowed upon him. He reiterated his commitment to the advancement and protection of Nigeria, stating, “I don’t have any other place except Nigeria. Nigeria is the only country I have so we must all join hands to protect and move Nigeria forward.”
Tompolo’s sentiments were echoed by High Chief McDonald Igbadiwei, who called upon the Federal Government to provide Tompolo with the necessary support to secure oil facilities and bolster national revenue generation. Stressing the importance of unity and collective effort, Tompolo emphasized the need to safeguard government properties and facilities to protect the nation’s economy from sabotage.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including the Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, and the Traditional Prime Minister of Ijaw Gbaramatu Kingdom, Hon. Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei, among others.
Also present at the event were NUJ officials including the Secretary, Shuaibu Usman Leman, Deputy National President, Alhassan Zyahaya Abdullahi, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, Ex-Officio, Asiwaju Shola Adebayo, Dr. Bimbo Oyekunle, and some Leaders of the Delta Council Executive