12th June, 2026 | News

NDLEA Destroys Over 73,000kg of Illicit Drugs in Edo State

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed more than 73,000 kilogrammes of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in Edo State as part of its ongoing campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse.

The public destruction exercise took place on Thursday at the Idogbo Bypass in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, following an order issued by the Federal High Court in Benin City.

Speaking during the event, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the operation demonstrated the agency’s commitment to preventing illegal drugs from reaching communities and fueling crime and addiction.

According to Ofoyeju, a total of 73,463.21 kilogrammes of seized drugs were destroyed. Cannabis accounted for the largest portion of the exhibits, weighing 73,210.23 kilogrammes.

Other substances destroyed included 246.36 kilogrammes of psychotropic drugs, comprising 141.81 kilogrammes of tramadol, 61.77 kilogrammes of codeine cough syrup, and 8.43 kilogrammes of diazepam. The agency also destroyed 3.74 kilogrammes of cocaine, 2.66 kilogrammes of methamphetamine, and 0.22 kilogrammes of heroin.

Sustained Operations Against Drug Trafficking

Ofoyeju explained that the drugs were recovered through intelligence-driven operations targeting drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond Edo State.

He noted that the agency has intensified efforts through the destruction of cannabis farms, raids on illegal drug warehouses, and the interception of vehicles used for transporting narcotics.

The commander added that numerous suspects have been arrested during these operations, while drugs hidden in unusual locations, including shrines, have also been recovered.

He further revealed that NDLEA operatives have faced attacks from armed criminals during some operations but remain committed to carrying out their responsibilities.

Marwa Reaffirms Commitment to Anti-Drug Campaign

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Mohamed Buba Marwa, represented by the Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Ningi, described the exercise as a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime.

Marwa stated that the destruction of the seized drugs was more than a routine procedure, describing it as a clear message to drug traffickers that the agency remains determined to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard communities.

According to him, removing the drugs from circulation prevented them from reaching the streets, where they could have contributed to addiction, criminal activities, and social instability.

He also emphasized that the exercise demonstrated transparency and accountability in the handling of confiscated drugs, assuring the public that all exhibits were properly documented and destroyed in accordance with legal procedures.

The NDLEA boss warned traffickers and drug dealers to abandon the illegal trade, stressing that the agency would continue to pursue offenders, seize illicit substances, and prosecute those involved.

The destruction exercise was witnessed by representatives of security agencies, government officials, religious leaders, and students, and forms part of the NDLEA’s broader strategy to reduce drug availability and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts.