The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 149 suspects and seized over 1.49 tonnes of illicit drugs in Kogi between January 1 and June 24.
Kogi NDLEA Commander Umar Yahuza announced this on Monday in Lokoja during a news conference marking the start of a week-long United Nations Day against Drug Abuse and Trafficking in the state.
Yahuza reported, “The drug menace in Kogi and Nigeria is so disturbing and demands urgent action to arrest it before it destroys our youths and future leaders. This ugly situation has serious implications on security, economics, and the general wellbeing of the citizens.”
He revealed that 29 of the arrested suspects have been convicted, while cases against others are pending at the Federal High Court in Lokoja. The agency seized assorted drugs including codeine, methamphetamine, diazepam, tramadol, cannabis sativa, and pentazocine.
“Statistics and empirical facts from the agency’s operations indicate clearly that the drug problem is mutating into a colossal social problem. It has become an issue linked beyond doubt to the escalation of insecurity and its attendant effects on peace and economy across the country,” Yahuza stated.
He emphasized the connection between illicit drugs and violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, and rape. “Anywhere there is drug, there is crime and vice versa,” he added.
Yahuza called for collaboration between the government, corporate organizations, and individuals to combat the drug menace. He praised Governor Usman Ododo’s administration for its substantial support to the NDLEA in Kogi.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Monday Anyebe, also commended the NDLEA’s efforts. “Investing in prevention is the most effective way to address drug abuse and addictions in society. By investing in preventive measures, we can empower the younger generations with the knowledge, skills, and support they need,” Anyebe said.
The NDLEA’s ongoing operations include various sensitization campaigns, advocacy visits, and collaborative efforts to address the drug crisis in Kogi and beyond.
