​Edo NDLEA Smashes Drug Syndicates, Seizes N1.8bn Narcotics in Q1

​BENIN CITY – The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dealt a massive blow to the illicit drug trade, announcing the seizure of narcotics valued at N1.8 billion between January and March 2026.

​In a comprehensive first-quarter operational scorecard presented on Tuesday in Benin City, the State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, revealed that 18,380 kilograms of various illicit substances were intercepted. The operations also led to the arrest of 104 suspects, comprising 71 males and 33 females.

​The Command’s aggressive “intelligence-led” strategy resulted in the discovery and destruction of 10 cannabis farms spanning over five hectares. Of the total 18,380kg of drugs recovered, approximately 12,556kg were destroyed on-site at the plantations, while 5,825kg were seized during raids.

​The seized substances include:

• ​Cannabis: 18,293kg
• ​Codeine Syrup: 81.4 litres
• ​Psychotropic Substances: 6.01kg
• ​Methamphetamine: 0.1888kg
• ​Cocaine & Heroin: Trace amounts totaling approx. 0.038kg
• ​Best Area Commander: DCN Timothy Nku
• ​Most Productive Officer: CSN Habibu Dauda
• ​Best Prosecutor: ACN Ella Ordiah
• ​Most Disciplined Officer: CNA Emuakpor Obada

​“These achievements underscore our proactive approach and unwavering commitment to the mandate of our Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), to rid the country of illicit substances,” Ofoyeju stated.

​Legal Victories and Rehabilitation

​Beyond enforcement, the Command recorded significant successes in the boardroom and the courtroom. The agency secured 36 convictions at the Federal High Court in Benin City during the period under review.

​On the humanitarian front, the Drug Demand Reduction unit successfully rehabilitated 28 clients, while 66 others were counselled and reintegrated with their families.

​Honouring Excellence: The Awardees

​To foster a culture of meritocracy, Commander Ofoyeju presented awards to outstanding officers, legal partners, and journalists.

​Key Officer Awards:

• ​Best Area Commander: DCN Timothy Nku
• ​Most Productive Officer: CSN Habibu Dauda
• ​Best Prosecutor: ACN Ella Ordiah
• ​Most Disciplined Officer: CNA Emuakpor Obada

​Media & Legal Partners:

ADVERTISEMENT

The agency recognized Adeyinka Adedipe (The Punch), Bello Usman (Daily Trust), Nafeesa Bello (EBS), and Usman Aliyu (NAN) for their consistent reportage. Barrister Agbako Afamefune was also honored for providing pro-bono legal aid to indigent defendants.

​The event concluded with the launch of the Command’s maiden magazine, a publication aimed at educating the public on the hazards of drug abuse and documenting the agency’s fight against cartels in Edo State.