Officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command have raided multiple illicit drug operations within Edo State, leading to the destruction of a cannabis plantation and dislodgement of illegal drug trafficking activities with multiple arrests. These operations underline the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and ensuring a safer society for all citizens.
According to the Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, PhD, the Edo State Commander, on August 18, 2026, a specialised team from the NDLEA’s state headquarters stormed a cannabis sativa plantation in the Ukaro Forest of Owan West Local Government Area, where they apprehended three male suspects: Imohimi Ugbeje, aged 50; Usihoro Saturday, aged 27; and Bala Sunday, aged 23. During the operation, the agency uncovered a cannabis farm spanning approximately 0.496 hectares, with an estimated yield of 1,240.9 kilograms. The plantation was swiftly destroyed, and a sample of the cannabis plant stems alongside half a bag of processed cannabis was seized, weighing in at 5.5 kilograms.
Furthermore, on August 19, 2026, NDLEA operatives targeted an illicit drug warehouse located at Ihumudumu in Ekpoma, Esan West LGA. In this sophisticated operation, the agency successfully recovered 319 bottles of codeine cough syrup, 1,340 capsules of tramadol, 344 tablets of Rohypnol, and 222 tablets of Danabol. While no arrests were made in this specific operation, NDLEA officials are actively pursuing the suspected owner of the drugs.
In another significant bust on the same day in Benin City, two male suspects were apprehended while in possession of ‘Canadian Loud,’ a potent strain of synthetic cannabis. The individuals, Zege Japhet, aged 29, and Ifeanyi Ogashe, aged 43, were found with a total of 290 grams (185 grams for Japhet and 105 grams for Ogashe) of the controlled substance. These arrests reflect the agency’s ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking within the state and protect the community from the dangers of substance abuse.
In a complementary initiative, the Scout Association of Nigeria convened its inaugural National Youth Camp in Benin City under the theme “Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development: Building a Peaceful and Prosperous Future.” The event attracted vibrant participants from Ogun, Oyo, Kogi, and Delta States, fostering collaboration, learning, and growth among the youth.
A highlight of the camp was a lecture delivered by Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, the NDLEA Edo State Commander, on the topic, “Drug Abuse and Substance Misuse Prevention Among Youth.” Addressing the alarming rise of drug abuse among youths in Nigeria, Dr. Ofoyeju emphasized the imperative for young people to engage in constructive activities and become informed about the risks associated with drug use.
“Empowering our youth is not just about education; it’s about providing them with the skills and support they need to make informed choices,” Dr. Ofoyeju stated. “As future leaders, it is crucial that young individuals understand the dangers of drug abuse and actively participate in community programmes that promote health and well-being.”
The collaboration with the Scout Association serves as a vital step towards ensuring that youth empowerment is paired with awareness and preventive measures against drug misuse, paving the way for a healthier generation.
As the NDLEA continues its vigilant campaign against drug-related crimes, it encourages citizens to remain aware and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking or abuse. With ongoing investigations and a strong resolve, the NDLEA remains dedicated to fostering a drug-free society and supporting the development of a responsible, empowered youth for a brighter future.
