Where is Scott Tommey?

HighLife

“What is this life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare?” These opening lines to William Henry Davies’ poem paint a sad picture of humanity. In many ways, Scott Tommey fits into this picture. Despite being believed to have more money and influence than he would probably ever use, the iconic businessman continues to live as a hobbit, far from the lively surface of affluent sociability.

Once in a while, the past glories of Tommey, the CEO of Osmoserve Global, come to mind. Tommey, formerly the shining gemstone of the Niger Delta region, has gone low profile. Today, he lives under the radar, no longer the big Abuja socialite that others publicly hated but secretly admired.

There are many theories as to why Tommey is nowhere to be found. One theory holds that the Osmoserve Global CEO allegedly fell out of favour with the powers that be, thereby attracting the efflorescent gaze of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Who has ever attracted the eyes of this anti-graft agency and remained the same?

Another theory has it that Tommey’s primary fallout is with Senate President Godswill Akpabio who was not happy with something Tommey did and left him out to dry. Following their relationship going sour, Akpabio’s political ascension naturally became the precursor for Tommey’s plunge into social and political obscurity.

Perhaps there is a pinch of truth in both theories. It is no secret that Tommey has had dealings with EFCC in times past. One particular instance comes to mind, the one in which he was accused of receiving bribes on Akpabio’s behalf. Tommey’s drop from public view once Akpabio became Senate President also indicates that all is not well with their old friendship.

Whatever the reason is for Tommey’s disappearance, Abuja’s circle of socialites undoubtedly miss him. Perhaps, like the EFCC and some commentators have stated, this circle would love to have him within reach now and then.