The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has carried out the public destruction of more than 73,000 kilogrammes of illicit drugs and psychotropic substances in Benin City, Edo State, as part of its ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking in Nigeria.
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‎The operation, held on Thursday at the Idogbo bypass in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, was executed in line with a Federal High Court order in Benin and witnessed by security operatives, government officials, religious leaders, and students.
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‎According to the Edo State Commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, a total of 73,463.21 kilogrammes of narcotics were destroyed, with cannabis accounting for the overwhelming majority at 73,210.23 kilogrammes.
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‎He explained that the seized substances were recovered through sustained intelligence-driven operations targeting drug syndicates operating within Edo State and beyond.
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‎Other destroyed items included 246.36 kilogrammes of psychotropic substances—comprising tramadol (141.81kg), codeine cough syrup (61.77kg), and diazepam (8.43kg). Also destroyed were cocaine (3.74kg), methamphetamine (2.66kg), and heroin (0.22kg).
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‎Ofoyeju added that the command had intensified its enforcement efforts through raids on drug hideouts, destruction of cannabis farms, and interception of vehicles used for trafficking. He also revealed that suspects across different demographics had been arrested, with some drugs discovered in unusual places, including shrines.
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‎He further noted that NDLEA operatives had faced armed resistance during some operations but remained committed to their mandate.
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‎Speaking on behalf of the agency’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), the Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Ningi, described the exercise as a significant step in the fight against drug abuse and organised crime.
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‎He stressed that the destruction of the seized drugs demonstrated transparency, accountability, and the agency’s determination to prevent narcotics from reaching communities where they could fuel addiction and insecurity.
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‎The NDLEA reiterated its warning to drug traffickers to abandon illegal activities, pledging continued enforcement, seizures, and prosecution of offenders as part of its national anti-drug strategy.