BREAKING: Aroni Clears Tompolo of Kidnapping, Torture, Detention Allegations Involving Itsekiri Youth

By Monday Peters, Abuja

First Phase Leader of the Presidential Amnesty Programme Delegates Forum and top rank ex-agitator, General Aaron Oputu, popularly known as “Aroni,” has strongly condemned what he described as unfounded and wild allegations against High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

Aroni, who is the National chairman of the First Phase Presidential Amnesty programme delegates forum, described the accusations alleging that Tompolo kidnapped, tortured, and detained some Itsekiri youths from Ijala community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State as false, misleading, and capable of escalating ethnic tension in the Niger Delta.

Speaking to our correspondent on Wednesday July 29, 2026, General Aroni said Tompolo has consistently demonstrated a commitment to peace, stability, and the development of the Niger Delta region and should not be unfairly linked to allegations without credible evidence. He urged those making the accusations to stop further with, describing the allegations of being capable of inflaming tension and conflict.

Reacting to the allegations,Aroni said, “I strongly frowned at these allegations. Tompolo does not kidnap people, neither does he operate any detention center. If Such persons have issues with anyone, they should not drag Tompolo into such frivolous matters. Tompolo is our respected leader, and we will not tolerate any attempt to tarnish his reputation.”

He further stated, “People should investigate issues thoroughly before making unfounded allegations. It is possible that the youths involved may have committed offences and were apprehended or assaulted by security agents during the course of their duties. Therefore, I completely distance Tompolo from these ridiculous allegations and urge the public not to be misled by unverified claims.”

Aroni further called on political leaders, community stakeholders, and youth groups across the region to exercise restraint and avoid statements that could threaten the fragile peace being enjoyed in Warri and its environs. He stressed that peace remains the foundation for sustainable development and coexistence among the various ethnic nationalities in Delta State.

The ex-agitator reaffirmed his support for peaceful coexistence among the Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, and other ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, urging all parties to embrace dialogue and avoid actions or rhetoric capable of undermining the region’s hard-earned peace.