BENIN CITY, Nigeria — The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) destroyed 73,463.21 kilogrammes of illicit drugs and psychotropic substances valued at ₦2.8 billion (approximately $1.75 million) in Edo State on Thursday.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), represented by the agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation, Suleiman Ningi, said at the public destruction exercise: “The illicit drugs being destroyed today amount to 73,463.21 kilogrammes and are valued at ₦2.8bn.” Okay News reports that the exercise was attended by representatives of the Edo State Government, members of the National Assembly, and other security stakeholders.
The destroyed narcotics were largely cannabis, accounting for over 73,000 kg, alongside tramadol, diazepam, codeine syrup, and smaller quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee, Edesili Anani, said: “The war on drugs is a war for the soul of our nation. It is a war against criminality, kidnapping, banditry and the devastating health consequences of substance abuse.”
Senator Joseph Ikpea, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District, praised the NDLEA and pledged continued legislative support for improved funding, equipment, and stronger legal frameworks. Edo State Commander of Narcotics Mitchell Ofoyeju highlighted the command’s successes in intercepting drugs concealed in vehicles, trucks, and shrines.
In the first quarter of 2026, the NDLEA seized illicit drugs worth more than ₦1.8 billion (approximately $1.125 million) in Edo State and arrested 104 suspected drug traffickers.
