The Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) has applauded the Department of State Services (DSS) for intercepting 57 AK-47 rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and other weapons in Delta State. The group also commended the DSS for arresting a Delta State-born British Army Major and others allegedly involved in arms trafficking. According to the IYN, the action strengthens public confidence in the DSS and underscores its dedication to national security. In a statement issued on Tuesday by IYN Coordinator Frank Ebikabo and Secretary Federal Ebiaridor, the group praised the DSS for its operation near Asaba, Delta State, which resulted in the arrest of a suspected gunrunner in possession of weapons.
They also lauded the DSS Director-General, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, and his team for their vigilance and professionalism in averting potential bloodshed in Warri.
The statement reads: “We, hereby, commend the Director General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi and the operatives of the service whose alertness and painstaking investigation led to the arrest of the UK Army Major and the seizure of the arms and ammunition involved.
“What the DSS has forestalled is an attempt to foist a dangerous regime of inter-ethnic violence on Warri and its environs.
“We hold the view that the agency deserves commendation as the magnitude of violence and destruction 57 AK47 rifles in the wrong hands can cause is better imagined.”
The IYN urged the DSS to conduct a thorough investigation to identify all those behind the attempt to incite violence, allegedly due to dissatisfaction with the INEC ward delineation in the Warri Federal Constituency. They also emphasized the importance of resolving such disputes through dialogue rather than resorting to violence.
The group called on the British High Commission in Nigeria to respond swiftly to a petition regarding the UK Army Major’s involvement, expressing concern over the potential damage to the reputation of the British military.
Additionally, the IYN advised the residents of Warri, including the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri communities, to be vigilant against individuals trying to provoke ethnic conflict.
In a related development, a coalition of civil society organizations has urged the British Government to collaborate with the Nigerian Government in investigating the activities of the arrested British Major.
In a letter dated April 28, 2025, addressed to the British High Commissioner in Nigeria, the coalition described the incident as a serious threat to Nigeria’s internal security. The letter was signed by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, Zekeri Momoh-Saliu, Mohammed Idris, and Hugo Okafor.
Member organizations in the coalition include the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Coalition for Democratic Watchdogs, Initiative for Voter Awareness and Electoral Reforms, and the Global Centre for Conscience Living Against Corruption, among others.