The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it has destroyed more than 51 hectares of cannabis plantations and arrested 281 suspected drug traffickers and users across Ekiti State within the last year.
The Ekiti State Commander of the agency, Rufus Aina, disclosed this in Ado Ekiti during activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
According to him, the command also secured the conviction of 50 offenders, while several other cases are still pending before the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.
Aina described the widespread cultivation of cannabis in parts of the state as a serious concern, warning that the illicit trade continues to fuel crime, insecurity, substance dependence and school dropout.
He said, “Drug abuse still remains a major public health and security concern. It destroys lives, weakens families, fuels crime, and undermines national development.”
The commander added that emerging threats, including synthetic drugs, the abuse of prescription medicines and the use of digital platforms for drug trafficking, have further complicated efforts to curb drug-related crimes.
“Addressing these challenges requires a collective and innovative approach. Beyond law enforcement, we must strengthen prevention, public awareness, treatment, rehabilitation and community engagement,” he said.
Highlighting the command’s achievements over the past year, Aina said the agency conducted 76 advocacy rallies, 15 radio and television enlightenment campaigns, and provided counselling for 87 drug users.
He also revealed that officers recovered more than 6,337 kilograms of various illicit substances during the period.
On prosecution, Aina said the command secured a 20-year prison sentence for a convicted drug offender, Osho Akindele, who was arrested with different illicit substances.
He further disclosed the arrest of two elderly suspects — a 78-year-old man from Ilupeju-Ekiti and an 80-year-old man from Efon-Alaaye-Ekiti — over alleged possession and trafficking of illicit drugs.
The NDLEA commander commended Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the governor’s wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, for supporting anti-drug campaigns and public awareness initiatives in the state.
He urged residents to support the fight against drug abuse by providing useful information to security agencies and encouraging preventive education among young people.
“Let us renew our collective resolve to confront the persistent issues, address emerging challenges and adopt innovative responses that will ensure a safer and healthier future for all,” Aina said.
