The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 129 suspects for drug-related offences across Kogi State, in a major crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking.
The Kogi State Commander of the NDLEA, Umar Mustapha Yahuza, made this known during a press briefing in Lokoja as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
According to Yahuza, the arrests led to the seizure of 282.314 kilograms of hard drugs, including cannabis sativa, cocaine, tramadol, opioids, and other psychotropic substances.
“These drugs were intended for distribution among our teeming youth in Kogi State, while others were being transported to various parts of the country,” he said. “One could only imagine the level of destruction if these substances had made it into the streets.”
The commander also disclosed that the agency has secured 35 convictions since January, with other cases currently ongoing at the Federal High Court in Lokoja.
Beyond arrests and prosecutions, the NDLEA said it has intensified efforts in preventive education. “Through the Drug Demand Reduction Unit, we have conducted sensitisation campaigns across schools, motor parks, places of worship, and corporate organisations,” Yahuza explained.
He added that 106 individuals who were apprehended during raids and found to be dependent on drugs received brief counselling, while 40 others brought in by their families were given full rehabilitation services and have since been reintegrated into society.
Calling for greater support from stakeholders, Yahuza urged the Kogi State Government to expedite the construction of a promised multi-purpose skill acquisition and drug rehabilitation centre.
“This centre is critical in ensuring that those who have been rehabilitated are not left idle but can learn skills and become productive members of society,” he said.
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