The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed that it destroyed more than 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations and arrested 281 suspects involved in illicit drug trafficking, peddling and substance abuse across Ekiti State within the past year.

 

The Ekiti State Commander of the agency, Rufus Aina, made the disclosure on Thursday in Ado Ekiti during activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, popularly known as World Drug Day.

 

This year’s World Drug Day is themed, *”The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”*

 

Aina described the widespread cultivation of cannabis sativa in several communities across the state as one of the major challenges confronting the command, warning that the illegal trade continues to fuel crime, insecurity and other social vices.

 

“In Ekiti State, the challenge is particularly significant due to the illicit cultivation of cannabis sativa in commercial quantities in many of the local governments and communities,” he said.

 

According to him, while some individuals may regard cannabis cultivation as a source of livelihood, its illegal production, trafficking and consumption have devastating consequences for society.

 

“While some may view cannabis cultivation as a source of income, its illegal production, trafficking, peddling and usage have far-reaching consequences, including criminality, insecurity, school dropouts, substance dependence, and the destruction of livelihoods, forest reserves and communities,” Aina stated.

 

He noted that Nigeria continues to grapple with traditional drug-related offences while also facing emerging threats driven by technological advancements and the proliferation of synthetic drugs and novel psychoactive substances.

 

“While longstanding issues such as drug trafficking, substance dependence and organised criminal networks persist, new threats continue to emerge, driven by changing drug markets, technological advancements and the proliferation of novel psychoactive substances,” he said.

 

The commander described drug abuse as a major public health and security challenge, stressing that it destroys lives, weakens families, fuels crime and undermines national development.

 

He added that the increasing misuse of prescription medicines and the use of digital platforms for drug trafficking have further complicated efforts to tackle the menace.

 

Aina called for a comprehensive approach to addressing the problem, stressing that law enforcement alone would not be sufficient.

 

“Beyond law enforcement, we must strengthen prevention, public awareness, treatment, rehabilitation and community engagement. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, community organisations and government agencies all have critical roles to play in protecting our society, especially our youth,” he said.

 

Highlighting the command’s achievements over the past year, Aina disclosed that the NDLEA conducted 76 advocacy rallies and public enlightenment campaigns, alongside 15 radio and television sensitisation programmes aimed at discouraging drug abuse.

 

He added that 87 drug users were successfully counselled and rehabilitated during the period.

 

“In the past one year, we have destroyed nothing less than 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations with a weight of over 127 tonnes. We arrested a total of 281 suspects involved in the illicit trade of drug dealings, trafficking and usage across the state, with 50 successfully prosecuted and convicted while other cases are still pending at the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.

 

“The command successfully recovered different illicit substances with a total weight of 6,337.517 kilograms,” he said.

 

The commander also highlighted some of the command’s major convictions, revealing that one Osho Akindele was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment after being arrested in possession of various illicit drugs.

 

He further disclosed that the command arrested two octogenarians for alleged involvement in illicit drug activities.

 

“Also of importance to mention is the arrest of the following octogenarians — one 78-year-old grandpa, Ogunjobi Samuel from Ilupeju-Ekiti and 80-year-old Oke Samuel from Efon-Alaaye-Ekiti for possession and dealings in illicit substances,” Aina revealed.

 

He commended Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for supporting the agency’s anti-drug campaign and praised the governor’s wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, for her sustained advocacy and community sensitisation efforts.

 

Aina described preventive education as one of the most effective strategies in combating substance abuse and urged stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns among young people.

 

“We must intensify efforts to educate our young people about the dangers associated with substance abuse and empower them to make informed decisions. Prevention is not only better than cure, it is cheaper, safer and more effective,” he said.

 

He also appreciated sister security agencies, non-governmental organisations, the Drug Free Community Development Service of the National Youth Service Corps, students and the Kayode Adamolekun Foundation for their continued collaboration with the agency.

 

Calling for greater public participation in the fight against illicit drugs, Aina urged residents to support efforts aimed at creating safer communities.

 

“Let us renew our collective resolve to confront the persistent issues, address emerging challenges and adopt innovative responses that will ensure a safer and healthier future for all,” he said.