Popular Delta Chief Ayiri Emami’s Brother Arrested For Cannabis Smuggling In Lagos, NDLEA Accused Of Cover-Up
SaharaReporters gathered that Ajetsibogho, who is the younger brother of former Niger Delta militant and politician Chief Ayiri Emami, was apprehended on June 25, 2025, by operatives attached to the Lagos State Command.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested Emami Ajetsibogho, popularly known as “Warri Kinsman,” over the alleged smuggling of 414.2 kilograms of cannabis sativa.
SaharaReporters gathered that Ajetsibogho, who is the younger brother of former Niger Delta militant and politician Chief Ayiri Emami, was apprehended on June 25, 2025, by operatives attached to the Lagos State Command.
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.
Sources told SaharaReporters that the NDLEA is allegedly covering up Ajetsibogho’s arrest due to his familial ties to Emami.
“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.”
Meanwhile, SaharaReporters has gathered that the suspect remains in NDLEA custody while the investigation is ongoing.
Femi Babafemi, spokesperson for the NDLEA, could not be reached for comment when contacted.
In April, President Bola Tinubu congratulated 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 reads.
“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.”
