The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended thirty-nine suspected drug traffickers, consisting of twenty-seven (27) males and twelve (12) females, with 2,477.59 Kg of narcotic drugs.
The state commander, Dr Mitchell Ofoyeju, stated in Benin City while presenting the operational scorecard for October 2025. Three cannabis sativa farms measuring 6.711192 hectares with an estimated yield of 16,777.98 kg were also destroyed within the period under review.
In his report, which covers both drug trafficking and drug demand reduction within the state, Commander Ofoyeju said that these operations have highlighted the ongoing significant progress recorded in combatting the drug trade in Edo State. “Our commitment remains steadfast as we continue to enforce the law, educate members of the public, and rehabilitate affected individuals who have problems using drugs. The fight against drug trafficking is relentless, and those who continue to engage in this illegal trade will face not only heightened enforcement but also stiffer penalties,” Ofoyeju stated.
He gave the breakdown of the total 2,477.59 kg of seized drugs as follows: Cannabis Sativa 2,476.87 kg; Tramadol 0.3575 kg; Nitrazepam 0.068 kg; Bromazepam 0.8141 kg; Diazepam 0.084 kg; Swinol 0.0036 kg; Danabol (Molly) 0.013 kg; Methamphetamine (abandoned) 0.0465 kg and Codeine Syrup 0.1 litre.
Additionally, three cannabis farms located in the Ugbodo Forest of Ovia North East Local Government Area, covering an area of 6.71 hectares, with an estimated yield of 16,777.98 kg of illegal crops, were eliminated.
The command’s prosecution unit also made significant strides in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking. October saw the conviction of eleven individuals involved in drug-related offences and eleven new cases charged in the courts. Currently, there are 121 pending cases at the Federal High Court in Benin City.
The Edo State NDLEA is committed to drug demand reduction with the provision of counselling to twenty-two individuals with drug abuse challenges. Several sensitisation programmes held throughout the month include members of the National Youth Service Corps, the Nigerian Army School of Electrical Engineering, Auchi, Joy International High School, Benin City, members of Man O War Nigeria, Eminent Group of Schools, Benin City, and Devine Knowledge Academy.
These outreach initiatives focus on education and awareness, aiming to reduce drug demand in communities and encourage healthier choices among the youth. The Commander reaffirmed the command’s dedication to dismantling drug trafficking cartels in Edo State. With ongoing operations and community engagement, the Edo State NDLEA aims to foster a safer environment free from the challenges posed by drug abuse and trafficking.
