Ilorin, Nigeria— The Kwara State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the seizure of over 2.3 tons of cannabis, valued in billions of naira, within just one week.
State Commander, Hajia Fatima Popoola, disclosed the feat during a press briefing in Ilorin, where she revealed that four suspects were apprehended in connection with the illicit haul. She explained that the seizures were made during separate operations around the Offa and Omu Aran axis, between 3:00 am and 5:30 am.
According to Popoola, traffickers concealed the drugs in Canter trucks and a J5 vehicle, disguising them as sacks of sawdust to evade detection at checkpoints. She noted that one of the suspects, a driver, was caught with 1.2 tons, another with 300 kilograms, while two others were linked to 720 kilograms.
“This is one of the biggest seizures we’ve recorded in recent times. The street value runs into billions of naira, which highlights the depth of drug use and trafficking in Kwara State,” she said.
The NDLEA boss also emphasized the link between drug abuse and rising criminality, pointing out that security concerns in areas such as Kaiama, Chikanda, Patigi, Edu, and Omu Aran are largely drug-related. She observed that while only 2 tons were seized in the whole of 2024, the command had already intercepted more than 2,000 kilograms between January and August of 2025.
Popoola attributed the success to collaboration with other security agencies, including the police, army, civil defence, and the support of traditional rulers.
Representing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the event, Senior Adviser Alhaji Saadu Salahu commended the NDLEA’s effort, describing the seizures and arrests as proof of the government’s determination to curb illicit drugs in the state.
He added that the government was engaging traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups, and religious institutions to intensify awareness campaigns against drug abuse.
“We must continue to enlighten the youth on the health and social dangers of drug involvement,” Salahu stated, urging citizens to stay vigilant and report suspicious movements.
The press conference was attended by representatives of military, paramilitary, and traditional institutions, all pledging support for the ongoing anti-drug campaign.
By Makinde oyinkansola| August 28, 2025
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
