By Chinwendu Agoha (Governance Reporter)
The Buhari Media Organisation has commended the new vigour in the anti-drug war by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The group lauded the NDLEA for the recent interception and seizure of cocaine with a street value of over N32 billion at the Tincan Island seaport in Lagos, and the agency's various measures to stop the movement and use of illicit drugs within the country.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary Cassidy Madueke, BMO said the agency, over the years under President Buhari's administration, has successfully arrested persons in connection with drug-related offences across the country.
"We salute the agency for being in the news for the right reasons and for the impressive figure of arrests made nationwide. According to the agency, 471 drug offenders were arrested in 2020 despite the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic. The arrest comprised 424 males and 47 females.
"A recent report released by the agency shows that it has made a remarkable seizure of illicit drugs across its various commands in the country. It intercepted 40 parcels of cocaine weighing 43.11kg, with an estimated street value of over N32 billion at the Tincan Port, Lagos.
"The agency raided Ukpuje Forest In Owan West LGA of Edo State, seized N1.4Billion worth of cannabis and recovered two rifles. NDLEA also seized a consignment of cocaine and heroin worth N30 billion at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, in Lagos State".
The pro-Buhari group noted that the agency has been credited with lots of achievements relating to the effective and efficient discharge of its duties in the fight against smuggling, production, trafficking and use of hard drugs in the country. "Lots of drug dealers have been hindered from travelling in or out of the country with cocaine, cannabis or heroin.
"We salute the NDLEA for always being in the news about its activities that keep bringing continuous discomfort to drug dealers. It is glaring that the agency keeps maintaining sanity in the country with regards to drug abuse.
"We urge all other ministries, departments and agencies to effectively communicate their achievements to Nigerians to further project the good work of government", the statement added. NNL.
