A former militant leader in the Niger Delta region, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has issued a stern warning to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, stating that the South-South region will not support his alleged presidential ambitions in 2027. Naija247news reports that Tompolo’s statement comes amid growing speculation about el-Rufai’s interest in the presidency.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, Tompolo, during a meeting with South-South leaders in Warri on Tuesday, accused el-Rufai of neglecting the region during his tenure as governor and failing to address the challenges faced by the Niger Delta people. “El-Rufai has never shown any concern for the South-South. He cannot expect our support in 2027,” Tompolo stated.
Naija247news gathered that Tompolo’s comments have sparked a heated debate among political stakeholders, with many expressing support for his stance. “The South-South has its own leaders who are capable of representing our interests. We do not need outsiders who have no regard for our region,” said a community leader who spoke to Naija247news.
Naija247news understands that el-Rufai, who has been vocal about his political ambitions, has yet to respond to Tompolo’s warning. According to Naija247news, the former governor has been touring the country, meeting with political leaders and stakeholders to garner support for his alleged presidential bid.
The ex-militant leader’s statement has also drawn attention to the growing influence of regional politics in Nigeria. Naija247news reports that the South-South region, which is rich in oil and gas resources, has long demanded greater representation and inclusion in national governance.
According to Naija247news, Tompolo’s warning is seen as a reflection of the region’s determination to assert its political power and protect its interests. “The South-South will not be taken for granted. We will support only those who have our best interests at heart,” Tompolo added.
Naija247news reports that the 2027 presidential election is already generating significant interest, with several prominent politicians, including el-Rufai, rumored to be considering a run. However, Tompolo’s statement suggests that the South-South region will play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the election.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Naija247news gathered that there is growing speculation about the emergence of a consensus candidate from the South-South region. “We have capable leaders who can represent us at the national level. It is time for the South-South to take its rightful place in Nigerian politics,” said a political analyst who spoke to Naija247news.
Naija247news will continue to monitor developments in the South-South region and provide updates on the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections. For now, Tompolo’s warning to el-Rufai has sent a clear message that the South-South region will not support candidates who fail to prioritize its interests.
