A significant amount of illicit substances totaling 304,436 kg and 40,042 litres that were confiscated from various locations in Lagos and Ogun states have been destroyed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
In a statement released to the press, Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA, disclosed that the confiscated drugs were publicly demolished in Badagry, Lagos.
Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), the Chairman of NDLEA, emphasized that the destruction of the seized illicit drugs was carried out in compliance with court orders.
Marwa urged the public to show more support for the continuous efforts of NDLEA and other involved parties in combatting substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking within Nigeria.
The NDLEA Chairman stated that the destruction of confiscated illicit drugs is a routine exercise performed at the conclusion of related court cases, adding that the destroyed exhibits consisted of various types such as cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and tramadol in solid and liquid forms.
He disclosed that the seized drugs were intercepted by NDLEA operatives from different units in Lagos and Ogun states since January 2022, with notable confiscations made at the seaports, airports, and land borders in Lagos.
Marwa recognized the presence of traditional rulers, security agency heads, religious leaders, NGO and CSO members, and other stakeholders at the destruction event.
Expressing gratitude to local and international partners, Marwa highlighted the collaboration with organizations like the American Drug Enforcement Administration, United Kingdom NCA, Border Force, German and French authorities, and Indian NCB.
He assured that NDLEA’s commitment to eradicating drug-related issues remains steadfast and emphasized the importance of collective public involvement to ensure a secure society.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended NDLEA’s dedicated efforts against illicit drugs, emphasizing the role of drug abuse in fueling criminal activities.
Represented by the Chairman of Badagry West Local Government, Mr. Olusegun Onilude, Sanwo-Olu appreciated NDLEA’s advocacy campaigns against drug abuse in schools and communities across Lagos State.