The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Akwa Ibom State Command, has destroyed 2.768 tonnes of illicit drugs including Indian hemp, cocaine, heroin and other psychotropic substances valued N2 billion.
Chairman of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Marwa said in a statement that the illicit drugs were confiscated between 2014 and September 2021.
Marwa who was represented by the agency’s secretary, Mr. Shedrach Haruna stated that the destruction was carried out in line with the NDLEA Act which mandates it to take measures for the destruction of seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
He said the drugs were seized between 2014 and September 2021, adding that the destruction was done in line with the agency’s Act which mandates it to take measures for the destruction of seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
He assured that the agency will not rest on its oars to rid the country of hard drugs noting that the anti-narcotics agency “is not only involved in the arrest and prosecution of drug offenders, but also tackling the scourge through aggressive drug awareness and sensitisation programmes for vulnerable youths and other groups”.
He disclosed that the agency recently launched a 24/7 toll-free call centre for members of the public who may need help on drug-related matters.
Marwa appreciated the federal and state governments and other partners for their support in the fight against illicit drugs.
He therefore requested for land from the Akwa Ibom state government for the construction of staff barracks for the command as well as the establishment of drug-free clubs in schools in order to curb the menace.
Meanwhile, the deputy governor of the state, Mr. Moses Ekpo, praised the NDLEA and pledged the government’s support in its efforts towards the attainment of zero case profile in drug-related offences in the state and Nigeria at large
Spokesman for the deputy governor, Mr. Ekikere Umoh, said in a statement that Ekpo made the declaration during Marwa’s courtesy visit.
Ekpo noted that the efforts of the NDLEA had resulted in the upsurge of drug seizures, arrest and convictions at critical drug corridors across the country.
He urged the federal government to further empower the agency with more funding to enable it not only to give support to state offices but also procure the needed work tools for a revolution in the fight against unhealthy drug use.
“I call on Nigerians to team up with the government in the war against drug use and illicit trafficking.
“The negative implications of drug abuse are far-reaching, including adverse effects on the health of our people, avoidable road accidents and drug-related criminality,” said.
