The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has finally paraded Emami Ajetsibogho, popularly known as “Warri Kinsman,” over the smuggling of 414.2 kilograms of cannabis sativa.
Reporters on Friday reported that Ajetsibogho, who is the younger brother of former Niger Delta militant and politician Chief Ayiri Emami, was apprehended in June 2025, by operatives attached to the Lagos State Command.
But sources told SaharaReporters that the NDLEA was covering up Ajetsibogho’s arrest due to his familial ties to Emami.
The illicit substance was allegedly concealed in several bags, sealed in white and black nylon sachets.
The Warri South-born suspect has long been considered influential in his community, with reports indicating he had previously evaded multiple arrest attempts.
“The NDLEA is covering up the case of Emami Ajetsibogho caught with drugs because he is a brother of the former Niger Delta militant, Ayiri Emami,” one of the sources said. “That is why NDLEA has not been quick to announce his arrest the way they announce other arrests; it is because of his brother’s influence.”
However, on Sunday, the NDLEA in a statement signed by its Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, finally confirmed his arrest, describing him as a ‘notorious drug kingpin’.
“A notorious drug kingpin Ajetsibo Emami popularly known as ‘Warri Kinsman’ was on Saturday 28th June arrested in Ikeja Lagos after NDLEA operatives dismantled his drug trafficking network in a three-day operation leading to the arrest of three other suspects,” the agency said.
“Recovered from Emami’s network were 24 jumbo bags containing 681 pouches of Canadian Loud, a strain of cannabis weighing 414.2 kilograms.
“The bust of Emami’s drug ring followed credible intelligence on his attempt to move the shipment to Lekki area of Lagos, from where it will be distributed to other parts of the state and across the country.”
In April, President Bola Tinubu congratulated the suspect’s brother, Ayiri Emami, on his 50th birthday.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Tinubu extolled Emami’s dedication to national development.
The president commended the Itsekiri chief for his significant contributions to peacebuilding, the protection of vital oil and gas assets, and the promotion of unity and stability in the Niger Delta.
He also highlighted Emami’s efforts in consolidating the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and noted his steadfast loyalty to the Tinubu family.
“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Chief Ayirimi Emami, a prominent Itsekiri leader, on his 50th birthday, April 26,” the statement read.
“Chief Emami is a politician, businessman, and philanthropist.
“President Tinubu commends the Itsekiri leader for his commitment to nation-building, epitomised by his valiant efforts in peacebuilding and in ensuring the safety and sustenance of critical oil and gas resources, as well as in fostering unity and stability in the Niger Delta region.
“I thank Chief Emami for his support over the years for me and my wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a daughter of Itsekiriland, standing with us before and during the 2023 elections.”
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