In a landmark operation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Saturday destroyed over 1.6 million kilogrammes of illicit drugs in Ipara, Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, marking the largest such exercise in the state’s history.
The destruction event, hosted by Tijana Rabe, the Ogun State Commander of Narcotics, signified a major milestone in the agency’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking and abuse. Rabe described the exercise as a “historic moment” for the state and a testament to the relentless efforts of the NDLEA and its partner agencies.
“This is the first of its kind in Ogun, and it reflects our significant progress in curbing drug-related crimes,” she said, crediting the success not only to the NDLEA but also to the critical support of other security agencies.
The massive haul of seized drugs originated from various NDLEA commands under Zones 9 and 11, including Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun, Oyo, Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos Seaports, Idiroko, and Seme Border Commands.
Rabe extended appreciation to the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Amotekun Corps for their strategic roles in supporting the agency’s mission. She also acknowledged the unwavering support of Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
“The governor’s backing has been instrumental in our ‘War Against Drug Abuse’ (WADA) campaign. With such support, we are more empowered to identify and prosecute drug barons across the region,” she added.
Representing NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Deputy Commander-General of Narcotics, Ibrahim Abdul, emphasized the scale and seriousness of the drug crisis in Nigeria.
“The quantity of drugs being destroyed today underscores the gravity of the illicit drug challenge we face as a nation. This operation is a reflection of our unwavering resolve,” Abdul stated.
The substances destroyed included:
•123kg of cocaine
•46.8kg of heroin
•1.4 million kg of cannabis
•148,000kg of codeine syrup
•1.544kg of “skuchies”
•111kg of methamphetamine
•Other assorted illicit substances
Abdul noted that Lagos and Ogun States remain epicentres of drug trafficking due to their strategic location and proximity to international and land borders.
“To traffickers, let this be a clear message: the landscape has changed. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, we are taking a firm stand to end this menace,” he said, warning that the NDLEA will continue to pursue and prosecute violators of the nation’s drug laws.
He also highlighted the agency’s broader achievements, disclosing that over the past four years, 10,572 drug offenders have been successfully prosecuted and are currently serving sentences in correctional facilities across Nigeria.
The agency pledged to intensify its efforts, working in synergy with relevant stakeholders to rid the country of illicit drugs and safeguard future generations.
