Tompolo not behind Nnamdi Kanu ultimatum – PBAT Group

A socio-political group, PBAT Door To Door Movement has debunked reports circulating in sections of the media alleging that its Grand Patron, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

Describing the publication as “false and malicious,” the group’s National Coordinator, Sunday Asuku, in a statement on Sunday, said the story was fabricated by “desperate propagandists, fake news merchants, fifth columnists, and agents of disunity.”

Asuku stated that the attempt to link Tompolo to the purported ultimatum was a failed plot designed to stir tension and pitch the Federal Government against the former militant leader, whose record of supporting peace and development remains unquestionable.

According to him, “The fake news merchants’ plot to create tensions and instigate the Federal Government against Tompolo had fallen like a pack of cards in the face of his exemplary commitment to national peace and development.”

He noted that discerning Nigerians could now see through the motives of those spreading the falsehood, stressing that their actions were driven by discomfort over Tompolo’s unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The movement urged security agencies to identify and prosecute those behind what it termed a deliberate misinformation campaign.

“These elements are bent on creating tension and undermining the patriotic efforts of a man who has remained an icon of peace, unity, national development, socio-economic and political diversity, regardless of tribal, religion, zonal or political affiliation,” Asuku said.

He added: “It is evident that Chief Tompolo’s unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has unsettled certain groups uncomfortable with his growing influence in advancing national stability and economic progress. However, their attempt to malign his image through fabricated narratives will fail.

“For the avoidance of doubt, at no time did Chief Tompolo issue any statement or directive regarding the legal proceedings involving Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The matter is before a competent court of law, and any attempt to interfere with due process would be both unpatriotic and unlawful.”

The statement further cautioned against the misuse of social media for spreading false information, warning that such acts threaten national unity.

“The reckless use of social media to circulate divisive propaganda not only undermines the integrity of public discourse but also poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s collective peace and development.

“We therefore call on opinion leaders, influencers, and citizens alike to exercise restraint, promote factual reporting, and support the government’s ongoing efforts to build a stable and inclusive nation.”

Asuku reaffirmed Tompolo’s commitment to peace and national stability, especially in the Niger Delta region, where his interventions have contributed significantly to sustaining the nation’s economic lifeline.

“Chief Tompolo has consistently demonstrated commitment to the peace and stability of Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region where his efforts have helped sustain the nation’s economic lifeline. As a patriot and peace advocate, his focus remains on consolidating the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda and strengthening the bond of unity among Nigerians irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, which is obviously not going down well with the rebels,” the statement added.

He said the campaign of calumny was the handiwork of those unsettled by Tompolo’s promotion of President Tinubu’s policies.

“Chief Tompolo’s promotion of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda and his recent trend has made the enemies of Nigeria uncomfortable, hence, the propaganda and malicious publications, aimed at denting his harmonious relationship with the government,” Asuku stated.

The group appealed to the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to investigate and prosecute the masterminds behind the false report.

“We therefore call on the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate and bring to book those behind this reckless act. The deliberate spread of misinformation poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s unity and security, and such actions must not be allowed to go unpunished.”

The PBAT Door To Door Movement reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, good governance, and unity through truthful communication.

“The PBAT Door To Door Movement remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, good governance, and national cohesion through truthful communication and civic engagement. We urge Nigerians to disregard the false report and always verify information before sharing it online,” the statement concluded.