SEINASAWO Militia

The Seinasawo or “Teme” (spirit) group, is one of many militant groups that have taken up arms against the government, which is accused of skewing the distribution of wealth from oil revenues.

Actions include attacks on oil rigs and oil pipelines, and the kidnapping of oil workers in order to raise awareness of the condition of the region. Members of similar groups are linked to the notorious politicised armed group called MEND (Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta).

The definition of militant is blurred by the involvement of members and leaders of groups in oil bunkering, territorial fights and gang related activities. Members of the Seinasawo are highly linked to the superstitious practices believed to make the user invincible during their actions, such as the wearing of talismans and “magic” objects.

Members of the Seinasawo group are based in an intricate forest of mangroves in the delta of the river Niger. In this series of images you can see them demonstrate pre attack rituals, exhibiting their speed boat driving, arms handling, and use of camouflage.