The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its nationwide offensive against drug trafficking, dismantling major syndicates and intercepted large consignments of illicit substances in multiple states. The latest operations, which led to several high-profile arrests and seizures, underscored the agency’s commitment to curbing drug-related crimes and ensuring a safer society.
The disclosure was contained in a statement signed by NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
In Lagos, NDLEA operatives apprehended a Lekki-based businessman and owner of Damillionz Takeout, Arokodare Damil Ebenezer, in connection with a shipment of 60 parcels of Loud, a highly potent strain of cannabis, from the United States. The 43-year-old suspect was arrested on March 24 at Bay Lounge, Admiralty Way, Lekki, while awaiting the delivery of his consignment. His cargo, which arrived in Nigeria on March 12 in seven large cartons, was seized by NDLEA operatives from the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation at a logistics company in Lagos. A subsequent search of his residence led to the discovery of 94 grams of the same substance, along with a cannabis crusher and other drug paraphernalia, bringing the total seizure from him to 32.24 kilograms. During interrogation, he admitted to engaging in the illicit drug trade since 2017.
At Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, NDLEA operatives thwarted an attempt by another businessman, Omoruyi Terry, to export 1,400 pills of tramadol 225mg (weighing 800 grams) to Italy. Omoruyi, an Italy-based frequent traveler and logistics agent, was intercepted at the screening point of Terminal 2 while trying to board a Qatar Airways flight.
In Katsina State, a covert operation at a drug repackaging facility in Godai village, Daura Local Government Area, led to the arrest of four individuals: Baraka Abubakar (40), Haruna Alitine (23), Muhammad Babangida (20), and Hamisu Lawal. NDLEA operatives recovered 684 blocks of compressed cannabis (skunk) weighing 423kg and 86,000 pills of diazepam from the suspects. Three of the male suspects were caught repackaging the diazepam into different containers, while Baraka Abubakar, a female suspect, was found storing large quantities of skunk in her house.
In Edo State, NDLEA operatives destroyed 13,198 kilograms of cannabis sativa in multiple forest locations between March 24 and 28. The illicit plantations were uncovered in Uhen Forest (Ovia North East LGA), Sobe (Owan West LGA), and Amahor Forest (Igueben LGA). Additionally, 158kg of the same substance was evacuated for possible prosecution.
In Niger State, NDLEA officers intercepted a black Toyota Corolla (registration number: SLM 137 SV) along the Mokwa-Jebba Road on March 28, arrested Paul Christopher (46) and Lucky Star Anumie, who were found in possession of 179 blocks of compressed skunk (77.6kg) concealed in a false-bottom compartment of the vehicle. In a separate operation on March 29, NDLEA operatives raided the home of Isa Iliya in Wawa village, Borgu Local Government Area, recovered 50kg of skunk. The suspect, however, remained at large.
Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives in Enugu State seized 108.5kg of cannabis from lockup shops at Aria New Market, while in Kwara State, 25kg of cannabis was confiscated from Abdulrazak Saka at Kilako Area, Ilorin. In Ibadan, Oyo State, Suli Saheed (50) was arrested with 2.5kg of Ghanaian Loud and 515 grams of Colorado at Olomi Academy area.
Beyond enforcement operations, NDLEA continued its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization campaign, reaching schools and communities across different states. Educational lectures were delivered at institutions including Blessed Martins International School, Abakaliki (Ebonyi State); Model Ideal College, Enugu; Oto-Awori Senior Secondary School, Ijanikin (Lagos State); and Command Secondary School, Numan (Adamawa State).
Commending the officers for their achievements, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to the agency’s personnel and stakeholders, urging continued dedication to the fight against drug abuse.
“May the spirit of obedience and sacrifice that defines this special day guide and strengthen us as we remain steadfast in our pursuit of a drug-free society,” Marwa stated.
