The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed an unprecedented 1.6 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances seized across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states. This marks the largest volume of illicit drugs ever incinerated at one time in the agency’s history.
The destruction exercise took place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at an isolated site in Ipara, Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. It was witnessed by a diverse group of officials, including government representatives, traditional rulers, clergymen, members of security agencies, international partners, NGOs, and community leaders.
Among the illicit drugs destroyed were 123 kilograms of cocaine, 46.8 kilograms of heroin, 1.4 million kilograms of cannabis, 148,000 kilograms of codeine syrup, 3,244.26 kilograms of tramadol, 1,544 kilograms of skuchies, and 111 kilograms of methamphetamine.
In his address, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking in the country. He stated that the vast quantity of drugs, totaling approximately 1.6 million kilograms, underscores the severe threat these substances pose to public health.
“The sheer volume of these seizures is a stark reminder of the grave danger illicit drugs represent to our society,” Marwa said. “Our mandate is clear: to reduce these narcotics to rubble. We take this responsibility with utmost seriousness and diligence.”
Marwa also sent a strong warning to those involved in drug trafficking, stressing that the era of impunity has ended. “For those still engaged in the illegal drug trade, let this be a reminder that times have changed,” he said. “Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, we are resolutely committed to eradicating this menace. We will continue to hold those who break the law accountable.”
The NDLEA has made significant strides in curbing drug-related crimes, having successfully prosecuted and convicted 10,572 offenders in the past four years, who are now serving various jail terms.
Marwa expressed gratitude to Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Seyi Makinde of Oyo for their ongoing support of the agency’s operations in their states.
Represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the Agency’s Director of Assets and Financial Investigation (DAFI), Marwa explained the rationale behind the public destruction of the seized drugs. “This process is about transparency and accountability,” he said. “It demonstrates our collective resolve to combat drug trafficking. Every item destroyed is confirmed through laboratory tests, and the process is conducted with court approval after the linked cases have been closed and the offenders prosecuted.”
