High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has made a landmark donation of ₦10 billion to the Delta State Security Trust Fund. The donation was central to the fund’s official relaunch by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House, Asaba, aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture through private-public partnerships.
The event drew significant attendance: captains of industry (including Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede and Jim Ovia), security chiefs, traditional rulers, and government officials. Tompolo, as Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, was named Chief Launcher of the relaunched Trust Fund.
Governor Oborevwori explained that although the Trust Fund was established by law in 2013, it had suffered neglect and under-utilization. The renewed framework now includes mechanisms for accountability, periodic auditing, and community participation. Key priority areas for the Fund are stated to include modern surveillance systems, operational vehicles, communication equipment, and capacity building for security agents and community vigilantes across Delta’s 25 local government areas.
Among those who spoke at the launch, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede made a personal donation of ₦100 million (with his wife), expressing optimism that the Fund could raise up to ₦100 billion by end-2025 through contributions from citizens, industries, and diaspora. Jim Ovia also praised the governor’s vision, calling the trust fund “a bold, forward-looking initiative.”
Analysis & Implications
- Security as Development Enabler: The past few years in Delta, like much of the Niger Delta, have seen challenges from pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and community unrest. Strengthening security is not just about protection, it’s also key to enabling investment, tourism, and local livelihoods.
- Private Sector Role: Tompolo’s contribution, along with others, illustrates growing recognition that state funding alone may not be sufficient. It suggests an evolving model where business and civil society can partner with government for security outcomes.
- Transparency & Accountability Challenges: For trust funds to work, citizens need assurance that funds are well-used. The promise of audits, visible deployments (e.g. of vehicles, surveillance cameras), and regular reporting will be central to maintaining legitimacy.
- Precedent for Other States: If Delta’s model succeeds, it could inspire similar trust funds elsewhere, especially in states with high insecurity and limited budgetary capacity.