The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Benue State has intensified its crackdown on drug-related crimes, leading to the arrest of 251 suspects in 2024. The State Commander, Mrs. Esther Musa, revealed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Makurdi, where she detailed the agency’s operations throughout the year.
According to Musa, of the 251 individuals apprehended, 220 were male while 31 were female. Out of these, 31 suspects have been convicted and sentenced to various jail terms, 39 cases were dropped, while several others are still under trial. She emphasized that the command not only made arrests but also seized significant quantities of illicit substances and other incriminating exhibits, including firearms and explosives.
Cannabis sativa, commonly known as weed, topped the list of confiscated drugs, with over one ton (175.723 kg) taken off the streets. Tramadol, one of the most abused substances in Nigeria, accounted for 43 kg of the seizures, while Fitamin (0.27 kg), Diazopharm (4.39 kg), and Codeine syrup (156.1 kg) were also intercepted. Additionally, locally made pistols, arms, ammunition, and explosives were recovered and subsequently handed over to security agencies like the army and police.
Musa attributed the success of the NDLEA’s efforts to its dual approach: enforcement through arrests and seizures, and public education under the “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) campaign. She explained that WADA is a broad sensitization initiative aimed at enlightening Nigerians—particularly young people—on the dangers of drug abuse, trafficking, and cultivation. Throughout the year, the agency conducted 142 sensitization programs, mainly in schools and religious institutions, to curb the rise of substance abuse before it starts.
Beyond enforcement, Musa highlighted the agency’s preventive strategy, which focuses on reducing drug supply through education and advocacy. “It is better to enlighten people and prevent them from falling into drug abuse than to constantly chase down dealers. Prevention is cheaper and more effective than arrests and seizures,” she stated.
Despite these efforts, Musa expressed concern over the lack of a proper rehabilitation facility in the state. She revealed that the NDLEA currently operates a mini rehab center within its premises, but it is ill-equipped to handle the growing number of cases. Notably, there are no facilities for female drug users seeking rehabilitation, forcing the agency to turn away requests for assistance. She called on the Benue State Government, NGOs, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the establishment of a fully equipped rehabilitation center to cater to both male and female drug users in the state.
Finally, Musa issued a stern warning to young people, urging them to stay away from drugs to protect their health and future. “Drug abuse can destroy your dreams and cut short your potential. Stay away from it so you don’t kill the star in you,” she advised.
With ongoing enforcement efforts and a renewed focus on public awareness, the NDLEA in Benue remains committed to tackling the drug menace and ensuring a safer, drug-free society.
