NDLEA Destroys Largest Seizure Illicit Drugs Seized in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo
the public destruction of the illicit substances witnessed by representatives of government officials, traditional rulers, clergymen, other security agencies, international partners, NGOs and community leaders, among others, was conducted at an isolated location at Ipara, along Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Ogun state on Saturday
- Considered as largest seizure in History
Illicit drugs weighing about 1.6 million kilogrammes of assorted illicit substances seized across Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states have been destroyed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
This stands as the largest volume of seizures to be set ablaze in the annals of the anti-narcotics agency.
A statement by the spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi, says the public destruction of the illicit substances witnessed by representatives of government officials, traditional rulers, clergymen, other security agencies, international partners, NGOs and community leaders, among others, was conducted at an isolated location at Ipara, along Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Ogun state on Saturday
Some of the illicit drugs destroyed include 123 kilogrammes of cocaine; 46.8 kilogrammes of heroin; 1.4 million kilogrammes of cannabis; 148,000 kilogrammes of codeine syrup; 3,244.26 kilogrammes of tramadol; 1,544 kilogrammes of skuchies; and 111 kilogrammes of methamphetamine, among others.
Speaking at the occasion, Chairman of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), says the exercise is a testament to the agency’s steadfast commitment to tackling the scourge of drug trafficking in the country.
“The sheer volume of seizures, which totals approximately 1.6 million kilogrammes, serves as a reminder of the grave danger these substances pose to public health until they are completely and irreversibly destroyed. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operates under a clear mandate to reduce these narcotics to rubble. At all times, we discharge this duty with the utmost seriousness and diligence.”
According to the statement, he warns those involved in drug trafficking that the times have changed and there will be no breathing space or any safe haven for them in Nigeria.
He expresses appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo for their support to the commands and operations of the agency in their respective states.
The NDLEA boss who was represented at the occasion by the agency’s Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, justified the public destruction of the confiscated drugs.
He says the rationale is simple: to show transparency and accountability. By making this process open, we affirm our collective resolve against the insidious activities of illicit drug trafficking.
“This exercise is not merely symbolic—it is forensic, grounded in evidence. Random laboratory tests are carried out to confirm the authenticity of the seized items. The substances are destroyed with the approval of the court after the cases linked to them have been brought to closure, following arrests and successful prosecution.”
He notes that the event represents a significant milestone in the history of the agency because it is the public destruction of the largest seized narcotics across a spectrum of commands under NDLEA Zone 9 and Zone 11, which comprise the Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun State Command, Oyo State Command, MMIA Strategic Command, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko Border Command, and Seme Border Command”, adding that “while this accomplishment reflects our determination, it also underscores the scale of the challenge we continue to face.”
While commending the unwavering dedication of the officers who are working tirelessly to ensure that they do not fail in the assigned task of curbing illicit drug trafficking, Marwa thanks both local and international partners who have continued to contribute to the success of the work of the agency.
In his remark at the ceremony, Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun represented by his Special Adviser on Security, AIG Olusola Subair (rtd) commends the efforts of the leadership and personnel of NDLEA for their courage, professionalism, consistent efforts in intercepting illicit drugs before they get to communities and streets.
He adds that the state government remains a committed partner in the fight against drug-related crime.
While noting that the drug scourge is a social, economic and public health crisis, Governor Abiodun maintains that government must invest in prevention through education, through counseling and youth empowerment initiatives and strengthen rehabilitation centers and provide support systems for those battling addiction.
