Ekiti sees destruction of 51 hectares of marijuana, 281 alleged offenders taken into custody by NDLEA

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has reported the destruction of over 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations and the arrest of 281 suspects implicated in illicit drug activities across Ekiti State in the past year, according to the agency's commander, Rufus Aina.

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Rufus Aina disclosed this information on Thursday in Ado Ekiti during the commemoration of the 2026 World Drug Day, where the agency also announced the conviction of 50 suspects, with other cases still pending before the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.

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World Drug Day is observed annually on June 26, and the theme for the 2026 edition is "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses", highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing drug-related issues.

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Aina noted that the large-scale cultivation of cannabis in several Ekiti State communities poses a significant challenge, with far-reaching consequences including criminality, insecurity, and substance dependence.

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He emphasized that the illegal production, trafficking, and usage of cannabis have severe repercussions, affecting not only individuals but also communities, forest reserves, and livelihoods, underscoring the need for collective action.

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Aina stated that while traditional issues like drug trafficking and substance dependence persist, new threats have emerged, driven by changing drug markets, technological advancements, and the proliferation of novel psychoactive substances.

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Drug abuse remains a major public health and security concern, with devastating effects on individuals, families, and society as a whole, fueling crime and undermining national development, according to Aina.

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The emergence of synthetic drugs, prescription medicine misuse, and digital platforms for drug trafficking has further complicated the issue, requiring a comprehensive and innovative approach to address these challenges.

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Aina stressed that addressing these challenges necessitates a collective effort, involving not only law enforcement but also prevention, public awareness, treatment, rehabilitation, and community engagement, with critical roles for parents, teachers, and community organizations.

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He commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for supporting the agency's anti-drug campaign and praised the governor's wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, for her advocacy and community sensitization efforts, highlighting the importance of preventive education.

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Aina emphasized that preventive education is a highly effective tool against drug abuse, and efforts must be intensified to educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse and empower them to make informed decisions.

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In the past year, the agency conducted 76 advocacy rallies and enlightenment campaigns, as well as 15 radio and television campaigns, and successfully counselled 87 drug users, according to Aina.

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The agency destroyed at least 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations, with a weight of over 127 tonnes, and arrested 281 suspects involved in illicit drug activities, with 50 successfully prosecuted and convicted, while other cases are still pending.

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The command recovered different illicit substances with a total weight of 6,337.517 kilograms, and secured notable convictions, including a 20-year jail term for one Osho Akindele, who was arrested with various illicit substances.

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Aina also highlighted the arrest of two octogenarians, 78-year-old Ogunjobi Samuel from Ilupeju-Ekiti and 80-year-old Oke Samuel from Efon-Alaaye-Ekiti, for possession and dealings in illicit substances.

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The commander urged residents to support the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, and to renew their collective resolve to confront persistent issues and adopt innovative responses for a safer and healthier future.

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Aina expressed appreciation for the support of sister security agencies, non-governmental organizations, the Drug Free Community Development Service of the National Youth Service Corps, students, and the Kayode Adamolekun Foundation in the agency's activities in the state.