A coalition of civil society organisations has called on the British Government to collaborate fully with Nigerian authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into the activities of a British Army Major arrested over alleged illegal trafficking in arms.
The Department of State Services (DSS) arrested Major Micah Polo on April 25, 2025, when operatives carried out a covert operation near Asaba, Delta State, resulting in the seizure of 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.
The Coalition in a letter addressed to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, dated April 28, 2025, said the embassy must fully support the investigation and any potential links he may have with groups intent on fuelling unrest in Nigeria.
The letter was jointly signed by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, Leader of the coalition; Zekeri Momoh-Saliu, Secretary; Mohammed Idris, Member; and Hugo Okafor, Member.
Dr Gabriel told reporters after submitting the letter to the British High Commission in Abuja, that Britain must support efforts to ensure the security and stability of Nigeria, and trace the origin of the guns and ammunition.
The civil society groups asked for assurances that any British national involved in the illegal arms trafficking would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
They noted that failure to act decisively would embolden further violations and damage the existing bilateral relations between the two countries.
The coalition consists of 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.
