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| DSS Foils Unrest Plot in Warri, Detainees Held |
The Department of State Services (DSS) said it has foiled a planned unrest in Warri, Delta State. A serving Army major was among those arrested. The plot involved smuggling weapons into the region.
The operation took place in two phases. First, DSS agents moved on a site near Asaba. They seized over 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition. Several associates were also arrested.
Shortly after, agents in Lagos intercepted the prime suspect. He was en route to the United Kingdom. The suspect is a Major in the British Army and of Itsekiri origin. This arrest dealt a heavy blow to the planned unrest.
Security experts say such plots can damage trust in public institutions. They warn that unrest erodes social cohesion. One analyst noted that swift action by the DSS was key to keeping peace in Delta State.
The arrests came amid tensions over the ward and polling unit delineation in Warri Federal Constituency. Some community groups oppose changes they say favor one ethnic group over another. The DSS says the weapons were meant to stoke those tensions further.
A high-ranking traditional ruler is also under discreet investigation. Authorities suspect he may have links to the plot. The DSS has vowed to carry out a full and transparent inquiry. Anyone found guilty will face swift justice.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presented a new delineation report on April 22, 2025. The report covers Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo wards. Some groups feel the new lines undermine their political voice. Others say it brings needed reform.
Local leaders urge calm. They call for open dialogue and respect for the rule of law. Civil society groups insist on peaceful engagement. They say elections must be free from violence and intimidation.
Analysts note that Delta State has seen pockets of unrest in past elections. They point out that stable ward boundaries help ensure fair voting. The swift DSS response may serve as a warning to other would-be plotters.
The DSS will hold the suspects in custody as it deepens its probe. It will work with the Army and the police to trace all arms channels. The goal is to prevent further plots.
INEC has asked stakeholders to fast-track their feedback on the delineation. It says it will adopt final boundaries in line with the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling. Community meetings are set for early May.
Security watchers will monitor how the inquiry unfolds. They stress that a fair process will help cool rising tensions. They also call on all parties to shun violence.