The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its war against drug trafficking and substance abuse with the destruction of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances valued at an estimated ₦2.8 billion in Edo State. The large-scale operation, carried out under the directive of a Federal High Court order, saw over 73,463 kilograms of seized illicit drugs publicly destroyed in the presence of government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.
According to the agency, the bulk of the destroyed substances consisted of Cannabis sativa, which accounted for more than 73,210 kilograms. Other drugs incinerated included significant quantities of Tramadol, Diazepam, Codeine syrup, Methamphetamine, Cocaine and Heroin, all of which had been confiscated during various enforcement operations across the state. The exercise underscored the scale of the drug trafficking challenge facing the country and the determination of authorities to prevent the substances from finding their way back into circulation.
Speaking during the destruction exercise, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, represented by the state’s First Lady and Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee, Mrs. Edesili Anani, described drug abuse and trafficking as serious threats to national security and social stability. He stressed that the battle against illicit drugs is closely linked to the fight against crimes such as kidnapping, banditry and other violent activities that often thrive on drug abuse and addiction. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The governor emphasized that the occasion was not merely about destroying narcotics but about reaffirming society’s commitment to protecting future generations from the devastating effects of drug abuse. He also pledged continued support for the NDLEA and revealed plans by his administration to establish a modern rehabilitation centre aimed at helping individuals recover from drug addiction and reintegrate into society.
In a strong warning directed at criminal networks operating in the state, the governor declared that drug traffickers would find no safe haven in Edo, promising relentless action against those involved in the illegal trade. He reiterated that the government would continue working closely with security agencies to ensure that every illicit substance uncovered is confiscated and destroyed.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Mohamed Buba Marwa, who was represented by the agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation, Suleiman Ahmed Ningi, described the destruction exercise as a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s resolve to dismantle drug trafficking networks and curb substance abuse. He praised the Edo State Government for its support, including the allocation of land for the construction of a model NDLEA state headquarters.
Marwa noted that the public destruction of the seized drugs sends a clear message to traffickers and criminal syndicates that the country remains committed to eliminating the menace of narcotics. He added that the fight against drugs requires collective action from government institutions, communities and citizens if lasting success is to be achieved.
Also present at the event was Senator Joseph Ikpea, who commended the NDLEA for its sustained efforts and pledged stronger legislative backing for the agency’s operations. Meanwhile, Edo State NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, highlighted recent successes recorded by the command, revealing that operatives had intercepted drugs concealed in vehicles, articulated trucks and even traditional shrines.
The destruction of the massive drug haul marks another significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing campaign against illicit drug trafficking and abuse, reinforcing the message that authorities remain determined to protect communities from the social, economic and security consequences associated with narcotics.
