Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the arrest of 49 suspected drug offenders during a series of operations carried out across the state in July, while also promoting 73 officers in recognition of their dedication and outstanding service.
The development underscores the agency’s intensified campaign against illicit drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State, one of Nigeria’s strategic transit and consumption hubs for narcotic substances.
Speaking during a ceremony held at the command headquarters in Benin City, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed that the command recorded significant operational successes during the month under review, leading to dozens of arrests and the seizure of various illicit substances.
According to Ofoyeju, the 49 suspects comprise 26 males and 23 females, reflecting a growing concern over the increasing involvement of women in drug-related offences.
He described the trend as disturbing, noting that drug abuse and trafficking continue to evolve across different demographics, making intelligence-driven enforcement and public awareness more critical than ever.
“The number of female suspects arrested during the month is a reminder that the fight against illicit drugs requires the involvement of every segment of society,” he said.
Crackdown on drug trafficking
The commander explained that the arrests were made through coordinated raids, surveillance operations and intelligence gathering conducted across several parts of Edo State.
He stated that the suspects were apprehended for offences ranging from unlawful possession of narcotic drugs to trafficking and distribution of prohibited substances.
Although the command did not immediately provide a comprehensive breakdown of all the seized drugs, Ofoyeju reaffirmed that exhibits recovered during the operations would serve as evidence in ongoing investigations and subsequent prosecutions.
He stressed that the agency remains committed to dismantling drug trafficking networks operating within the state and preventing the circulation of illicit substances in local communities.
The commander warned criminal syndicates that Edo would remain hostile territory for drug traffickers, emphasizing that the command would sustain its aggressive enforcement operations.
Promotions reward dedication
Beyond the operational achievements, the ceremony also celebrated the promotion of 73 officers and personnel who recently advanced to higher ranks following approval by the NDLEA leadership.
Ofoyeju congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as recognition of professionalism, discipline and commitment to national service.
He urged them to see the promotions not merely as rewards but as calls to greater responsibility.
According to him, the fight against narcotics requires officers who uphold integrity, respect human rights and remain committed to the agency’s core mandate.
He encouraged the promoted personnel to maintain high ethical standards while carrying out their duties and avoid actions capable of tarnishing the image of the agency.
Call for greater commitment
The Edo commander noted that promotions should inspire officers to redouble their efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse across the state.
He reminded personnel that communities increasingly rely on the NDLEA to protect young people from the devastating effects of illicit drug use and to prevent criminal networks from exploiting vulnerable individuals.
He also commended officers who participated in intelligence gathering, surveillance, rehabilitation support and public sensitisation campaigns.
According to him, enforcement alone cannot solve Nigeria’s drug problem without sustained prevention programmes and collaboration with stakeholders.
Drug abuse remains national concern
Drug abuse continues to pose one of Nigeria’s most significant public health and security challenges.
Experts have consistently warned that widespread abuse of illicit substances contributes to violent crimes, cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery and other forms of insecurity.
The NDLEA has, in recent years, intensified nationwide enforcement operations under its current leadership, recording major seizures of cocaine, cannabis, methamphetamine, tramadol and other prohibited substances at airports, seaports, land borders and within local communities.
The agency has also expanded its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign, which seeks to educate students, parents, traditional rulers, religious organisations and community leaders on the dangers associated with substance abuse.
Community partnership essential
Security experts believe the success of anti-drug campaigns depends not only on law enforcement but also on active participation from communities.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities while supporting rehabilitation initiatives for individuals struggling with addiction.
Public health advocates also stress the importance of counselling, mental health support and economic empowerment programmes to reduce vulnerability to drug abuse, particularly among young people.
The NDLEA has repeatedly called on Nigerians to provide timely intelligence capable of helping authorities intercept traffickers before illicit substances reach communities.
Commitment to safer communities
As the Edo State Command continues its enforcement operations, the agency says it remains focused on protecting lives through intelligence-led policing, strategic partnerships and continuous public education.
The promotion of 73 personnel, alongside the arrest of dozens of suspects within a single month, reflects the command’s dual emphasis on rewarding excellence while sustaining pressure on criminal networks involved in the illicit drug trade.
Authorities say investigations into the recently arrested suspects are ongoing, with those found culpable expected to face prosecution in accordance with Nigeria’s drug control laws.
The command reaffirmed its determination to continue working with other security agencies, community organisations and the public to curb drug abuse and trafficking across Edo State and contribute to national security.
Sources: NDLEA Edo State Command, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
