The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has carried out a sweeping operation in Edo State, leading to the destruction of a sprawling cannabis plantation and the arrest of four individuals suspected to be involved in its cultivation and distribution.
Speaking to journalists in Benin City on Monday, Commander of the NDLEA Edo Command, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, revealed that the raid took place on September 11 in Ugbogui Forest, located in Ovia South West Local Government Area. The operation was initiated based on credible intelligence pointing to large-scale illicit farming activities in the region.
According to Ofoyeju, the agency’s operatives uncovered and destroyed cannabis sativa crops covering approximately 6.79 hectares of forest land.
The estimated yield from the plantation exceeded 16,966 kilograms. Additionally, 112 bags of already harvested and processed cannabis—amounting to 1,176 kilograms—were recovered from the site.
“This is a bold and strategic move in our ongoing mission to eliminate drug threats from our communities,” Ofoyeju stated. “Beyond the criminal implications, this kind of illegal farming poses a serious risk to food security. These lands could be used to grow essential food and cash crops that benefit society.”
The commander emphasized that the operation reflects NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to disrupting drug supply chains and safeguarding public health.
He noted that the suspects, whose identities were withheld, hail from Delta and Akwa Ibom states and were found hiding in makeshift tents within the plantation. Legal proceedings against them are expected to commence shortly.
Ofoyeju also issued a call to action for residents, urging them to report suspicious activities and share reliable intelligence with the agency.
“We remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to protect lives and promote safety. Community cooperation is vital in this fight,” he added.
The raid marks a significant milestone in NDLEA’s campaign against drug cultivation in Edo State and reinforces the agency’s role in curbing the spread of narcotics across Nigeria.
