HURIWA Urges Nigeria, UK to Investigate British Officer Over Arms Trafficking in Delta

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has asked Nigerian and British authorities to jointly investigate British Army officer, Major Micah Polo, for alleged involvement in an arms trafficking case exposed by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Delta State.

In a Monday statement from Abuja, HURIWA warned that the incident could threaten national stability. The group said the arms discovery in Asaba raised concerns about attempts to destabilize Nigeria’s democracy, especially in volatile areas like Warri.

The DSS recovered 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition during the April 25 raid. Officers arrested Major Polo while he tried to flee to the United Kingdom. Other suspects were also detained at the scene.

HURIWA pointed to possible ties between the British officer and a traditional ruler in Delta State. The group suspects a wider plot to trigger unrest in the Warri Federal Constituency, where political tensions remain high. These tensions stem from ongoing disputes over ward delineation, following a 2022 Supreme Court ruling.

HURIWA submitted a petition to the British High Commission. The group urged the UK to support a transparent investigation. It emphasized the need to trace the weapons’ origin and destination to uncover possible international trafficking links.

“No foreign actor should exploit Nigeria’s political climate to cause violence or weaken democracy,” said Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s national coordinator.

The group called for swift legal action in both countries. It believes this would show their shared commitment to peace and justice. HURIWA also asked the DSS to remain professional and publish its findings to build public trust and prevent future threats.

The association encouraged Nigerians to stay alert and support legal authorities.

DSS Takes Over Case of Cleric Accused of Murder

In a separate case, DSS agents took custody of an Islamic cleric and four others accused of killing Hafsah Lawal. The suspects allegedly met the final-year student from Kwara State College of Education on Facebook.

Lawyers representing the victim’s family confirmed the DSS’s involvement. They dismissed rumors that officials had secretly moved the suspects to Abuja.