A regional advocacy group, Niger Delta Watchmen, has raised serious allegations of collusion in arms smuggling and criminal activities involving high-profile individuals in the Niger Delta, including traditional and political leaders. The group is calling on the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to launch an urgent and independent investigation into the matter.
In an open letter dated July 16, 2025, signed by Chairman Kelvin Kevwe and Secretary Workman J. Sylvester, and addressed to both Nigerian authorities and the international community, the group alleges a network of arms trafficking, militia training, and political protection spanning from the Delta region to the highest levels of Nigeria’s political and security establishments.
At the center of their allegations is Collins Edema, reportedly the Director of AIM and a key figure in the palace of the Olu of Warri. Edema is accused of coordinating a clandestine arms smuggling operation and training militant youth in the Niger Delta. His alleged collaborators include Fatty and a British national, Major Mica Polo, a former army officer recently arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) in connection with a weapons stockpile discovered in Delta State.
According to the Niger Delta Watchmen, these individuals have been training Itsekiri youths in armed combat and guerrilla tactics with the aim of triggering unrest in Warri and neighboring communities.
Raid in Asaba Uncovers Stockpile of Weapons
The group pointed to a recent DSS raid in Ebuzo, Asaba, where agents reportedly uncovered a large cache of illegal firearms. According to the Watchmen, operatives intercepted suspects believed to be working for Edema, who were caught attempting to move:
- 57 AK-47 rifles
- 6 pump-action shotguns
- Over 3,000 rounds of ammunition
The suspects, while in custody, allegedly confessed their affiliation with Edema, implicating the Olu of Warri as a protector of the operation.
However, the operation turned violent. A shootout reportedly broke out between DSS operatives and the Nigeria Police, resulting in the death of a police officer. The Watchmen have criticized the Delta State Commissioner of Police, accusing him of complicity in a cover-up and demanding full accountability.
Alleged Political Interference and Elite Protection
In their open letter, the Niger Delta Watchmen allege that efforts to bring the accused to justice have been undermined by political interference. The group specifically named Oluremi Tinubu, wife of President Tinubu, and political heavyweight Dazi Danjuma, as having allegedly used their influence to secure the release of the suspects from DSS custody.
“This release was directly influenced by Remi Tinubu and Dazi Danjuma, who used their political connections and power to pressure the military into freeing these individuals,” the group claimed.
They further accuse the Olu of Warri of shielding Edema and his militia network, and of inflaming ethnic tensions in the region for political advantage.
Allegations of Violence and Drug-Related Scandal
The letter also mentions Fatty’s alleged involvement in the burning of Odion community during a boundary dispute. The act was described as part of a broader destabilization agenda.
In addition, the group cited an alleged attempt by political elites to secure the release of Ayiri Emami’s younger brother, who was reportedly arrested in connection with a drug trafficking case. The Watchmen allege that similar influence-peddling and bribery were involved.
Call for Independent Investigations and Global Attention
The Niger Delta Watchmen have called on the Federal Government, the National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Nigerian Police to immediately investigate Collins Edema, Fatty, and Major Mica Polo, as well as the roles of the DSS and Delta State Police in the alleged cover-up and corruption.
The group also appealed to the international community to take a firm stance against what they described as Nigeria’s deepening corruption and elite impunity.
“It is shameful to witness how our country has descended into a corrupt quagmire,” the group stated.
“What is becoming clear is that in Nigeria today, the law means nothing when the powerful manipulate it for their gain.”
They stressed the need for transparent governance and for Nigeria’s political elite to be held accountable.
“We are not blind to the dangers these criminals pose. We are not powerless in the face of this corruption. And we will not remain silent while Nigeria is held hostage by bribery, political manipulation, and criminal activity.”
As of now, no official response has been made by the DSS, the Olu of Warri’s palace, or the offices of those named in the petition.
