He is the leader of Niger Delta Vigilante, an ethnic Ijaw militia in the Niger/Delta region of Nigeria which champions for resource control, devaluation of powers and fiscal federalism to the state as federating unit in Nigeria.
In 1999, he started his vigilance group which later became a large group that is being patronized now by the powers. There was an emergence of a cult group that was involved in stealing, robbery and brigandage in his hometown, Okrika Port-Harcourt. Ateke's group started fighting them and stopping them from their obnoxious activities which attracted government attention. It was from this point, Ateke started working for politicians during elections.
In August 2007 following days of gun fights between various militia groups and security forces in Port Harcourt, Ateke Tom wrote to the Governor, Celestine Omehia, requesting for amnesty in response to an offer of clemency and rehabilitation the government had offered to militia who surrendered.
On 1 October 2009, the 49th anniversary of Nigerian independence and three days before the closing of a government amnesty program, Tom willingly surrendered to President Musa Yaradua at the Government House, Abuja. The presidential jet was sent to fly Tom to Abuja, and the President stated that "Today, Chief Tom Ateke you have given me my 49th independence anniversary gift and I cherish it so much."
In 2017, Ateke was crowned Amanyanabo of Okochiri town in Wakirike , Rivers state. The coronation was marked by traditional dances, traditional rites and musical displays. Thousands of Okrika people witnessed the event. Governor Nyesom Wike was among personalities at the event held in Okochiri, Okrika Local government area on Saturday.
Ateke Tom is also a good friend of veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie. Edochie is a regular face in all his ceremonies; coronation, daughter’s wedding, to mention but a few.
Reports coming out say Pete Edochie led a group of protesters to the High Court in Port Harcourt over a suit by ex-militant leader, King Ateke Tom. Edochie led other Nollywood stars on the streets of Port Harcourt to register their solidarity with Ateke whose image they claim was being destroyed by politicians. Ateke’s one billion naira defamation law suit is in reaction to his photograph which was used in a recent Pro-SARS solidarity match organized by the APC in the state.
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FACEBOOK COMMENTS
View previous comments…Endy Edeson
@Goodie: I don't understand. What do you mean? Is it that the government should have honoured him more than his status right now?
Kaycee Vincent Maduka
Wow! So astounding. Finally,the only man who kips a leopard as a pet has gotten what he deserves. Congrats High Chief Tom Ateke.
Endy Edeson
@Vincent: He is brave, quiet, knows what he wants and the majority is with him. Other freedom fighters should learn from his enduring legacies.
Aruoture Goodie
Wasn't talking d coronation, I was talking about how d masses av suffered yet be ignored by d govt...
Endy Edeson
Henry; I will look out for that. As at the time of filing this report, I didn't get info about His educational background. Thanks. Stay locked on Edeson Online News
Salako Saint's Stephen
Endy if the man no get Education? what is going to happen