By Anisiobi Faith, The Sight News
The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Calabar as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating along the Calabar waterways.
The suspect, Mr. Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY deployed at the recently established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to the Navy, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant identified as Simeon, also known as Papi, who had allegedly been operating within the Dayspring Island axis.
Investigations revealed that the militant reportedly fled the area following sustained operational pressure mounted by NNS VICTORY, leaving behind certain operational assets in the custody of the suspect.
Further intelligence findings indicated that Ekiko allegedly maintained regular communication with the fugitive militant and provided information on the movement and deployment of security personnel operating in the area. He was also linked to the concealment and custody of equipment believed to have supported militant activities within the waterways.
The Navy disclosed that further examination of the suspect’s mobile devices and interrogation established a longstanding relationship between him and the militant leader. Investigators also found that assets abandoned by the fugitive militant were allegedly being used by the suspect for personal business activities.
Following preliminary investigations, the suspect was formally handed over to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with extant laws.
The handover marks another major breakthrough in the security operations launched by NNS VICTORY following the establishment of a forward security outpost on Dayspring Island. The initiative was introduced in response to the increasing incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities along the Calabar-Oron waterways.
In a statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the Nigerian Navy said sustained intelligence-driven operations and a persistent security presence in the area have continued to weaken criminal elements, disrupt their support networks, and improve security across the waterways.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal groups and their collaborators until lasting security is achieved and legitimate economic activities can flourish within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
