The Coalition of Delta State Civil Society Organizations (CODECSO) has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a dangerous and deliberate plot to destabilize Warri and surrounding areas through illegal arms smuggling.
In a statement signed by the group’s Secretary, Comrade Kenneth Nwaobi, CODECSO raised alarm over the recent arrest of suspected members of a sophisticated firearms syndicate, reportedly uncovered by operatives of the State Security Services (SSS). The suspects, identified as Collins Edema and Micah Polo, were allegedly found in possession of a cache of high-powered weapons, including no fewer than 50 AK-47 rifles and assorted ammunition.
“The sheer volume and calibre of arms recovered represent a clear and present danger to the fragile peace of our communities,” the statement reads. “This is not a routine crime—it is a coordinated assault on the peace, security, and unity of Delta State, particularly the Warri axis.”
CODECSO expressed grave concern that the smuggling operation appears calculated to reignite dormant tribal tensions and fuel potential communal conflicts that have plagued the area in the past.
“We cannot afford a return to the dark days of bloodshed and division. The peace we currently enjoy in Warri was hard-won and must be protected at all costs,” the coalition said.
To this end, CODECSO issued an urgent call to key stakeholders and government institutions to take decisive action:
- The Judiciary – To ensure the impartial, swift, and transparent prosecution of all individuals involved, resisting any attempt to compromise the process through corruption or political interference.
- The Inspector General of Police and Other Security Agencies – To intensify investigations, dismantle the wider network behind the arms cartel, and bring all collaborators—regardless of status—to justice.
- His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State – To publicly condemn this act of sabotage and mobilize all necessary mechanisms to preserve peace and security across the state.
CODECSO warned that silence or delayed action from authorities would send the wrong signal and embolden those bent on unleashing chaos.
“The people of Delta State deserve to live without fear. We cannot allow merchants of death to endanger our communities for their selfish motives,” the coalition stated.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and accountable governance, CODECSO vowed to remain vigilant and vocal until justice is served.
“Those behind this heinous crime must face the full weight of the law. The security, peace, and unity of Delta State are sacrosanct—and non-negotiable.”