In what has been described as the largest public destruction of seized narcotics in Nigeria’s history, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Saturday, April 12, 2025, set ablaze approximately 1.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs confiscated from operations across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States. The historic event took place at an isolated site in Ipara, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, and was witnessed by dignitaries including government officials, traditional rulers, clergy, security agencies, NGOs, and international partners.
Among the substances destroyed were:
- 123 kg of cocaine
- 46.8 kg of heroin
- 1.4 million kg of cannabis
- 148,000 kg of codeine syrup
- 3,244.26 kg of tramadol
- 1,544 kg of skuchies
- 111 kg of methamphetamine
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the operation as a strong demonstration of the agency’s determination to eliminate illicit drugs from Nigerian society. “This act goes beyond burning substances—it signifies our unwavering resolve to destroy the threats to public health and national security,” he stated.
Marwa, represented by the agency’s Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, reiterated the government’s stance on drug crime. “Let it be clear: times have changed. Those engaged in drug trafficking will find no refuge. The Tinubu administration remains committed to ending this menace. At NDLEA, we’re fully prepared to track, prosecute, and imprison offenders. In the last four years alone, we’ve secured 10,572 convictions.”
Dr. Abdul added that the destruction was conducted publicly to ensure transparency and accountability, with all drugs tested and validated through forensic procedures before court-ordered disposal. He highlighted that the seizures came from multiple NDLEA commands including the Lagos Strategic Command, MMIA Command, Ogun and Oyo State Commands, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko and Seme Border Commands, all under Zones 9 and 11.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by AIG Olusola Subair (Rtd), lauded the NDLEA’s bravery and professionalism in intercepting these dangerous substances before they reached communities. “This effort saves lives, protects our youth, and strengthens the rule of law,” he said, pledging the state’s continued support in combating drug abuse.
The NDLEA also acknowledged the steadfast support of international allies such as the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), UK Border Force, National Crime Agency (UK), German and French Police, and other agencies. Corporate backers including First Bank, Fidelity Bank, and Sterling Bank were also praised, alongside the Nigerian military, Customs, Police, NAFDAC, and others.
Governor Abiodun further emphasized the need for a holistic approach, urging investment in education, counseling, youth empowerment, and stronger rehabilitation systems to curb the growing drug crisis.
This event, marked not just by flames but by resolve, sends a clear message: Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for drug lords. The NDLEA’s war on narcotics has entered a new phase—aggressive, transparent, and relentless.
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