The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s (NDLEA) Edo State Command reported that in just three months, its agents had found N1.8 billion worth of illegal substances in the state.
The agency’s State Commander, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, reportedly revealed this on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Benin City during a press conference to highlight the Command’s accomplishments for the first quarter of 2026.
According to Ofoyeju, the state recovered 18.380 kg of illegal substances during the review period, and at least 104 suspected drug traffickers were taken into custody.
He said that the largest quantity of drugs found during that time was 18,293 kg of cannabis.
Psychotropic (6.01 kg), methamphetamine (0.188 kg), cocaine (0.023 kg), heroin (0.0151 kg), and codeine cough syrup (81.4 liters) are among the other illegal substances he listed along with their kilos.
The NDLEA Commander also provided a breakdown of the suspects that were detained during that time, stating that there were 33 women and 71 men.
Additionally, he revealed that 36 defendants were found guilty by the Command at the Federal High Court in Benin City.
He stated that there were 32 men and 4 women among the prisoners.
Ten cannabis plantations totaling 5,02260 hectares were also destroyed, Ofoyeju continued.
He stated that the goal was to eradicate drug-related crimes and promote a drug-free society, even if he acknowledged that the accomplishments were documented during several intelligence-led raid operations.
In order to raise awareness of the risks associated with drug trafficking and misuse, the Command also increased anti-drug abuse education through 26 programs.
“Sixty-six clients received counseling and were reunited with their families, while twenty-eight drug-dependent clients received rehabilitation,” he stated.
