NDLEA: We Arrested 251 Drug Offenders in Benue, Seized 175 Kg of Cannabis in 2024
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Benue State arrested 251 suspects for drug-related offences in 2024, with cannabis sativa ranking as the most commonly seized substance.
The State Commander of NDLEA, Esther Musa, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi, where she outlined the agency’s activities from January to December.
Musa revealed that among the arrested suspects, 220 were male, while 31 were female. According to her, “31 of the suspects were convicted to various jail terms, 39 of the cases were dropped, while others are still ongoing.”
The NDLEA also recorded significant seizures of illicit substances. “Cannabis sativa, popularly called weed, is the highest drug of them all. We were able to arrest one ton of cannabis (175.723 kg),” Musa stated. Other seized drugs include 43 kg of Tramadol, 156.1 kg of Codeine syrup, 4.39 kg of Diazopharm, and 0.27 kg of Fitamin.
Beyond drug seizures, the agency also recovered dangerous weapons. “Other items that were recovered within the year were locally made pistols, arms and ammunition, and explosives, which were transferred to the army and police, respectively,” she added.
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The NDLEA commander highlighted the agency’s efforts in tackling drug abuse through the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, which focused on sensitization and prevention.
“WADA is an enlightenment campaign championed by the agency to sensitise different target audiences and the populace on the menace and dangers of drug abuse, trafficking, cultivation, and other offences as it leads to substance abuse,” she explained.
In 2024, the command organized 142 sensitization programs in schools, worship centres, and among key stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies and traditional leaders. Musa emphasized the importance of preventive measures over enforcement.
“It is better to sensitise the people than to go after the dealers, as it is cheaper with sensitisation and advocacy than going out for arrest and seizures,” she said.
However, she acknowledged the challenges in rehabilitating drug users due to inadequate facilities.
“We appeal to well-meaning Nigerians, the Benue Government, and non-governmental organisations to provide the command with a more standard rehabilitation centre to help rehabilitate drug users,” Musa urged.
She noted that their current facility lacks adequate resources, particularly for female patients.
“As it is now, we don’t have facilities for females, and we have been getting requests for rehabilitation for female clients, but there is no facility for that, so when they come, we decline,” she admitted.
Musa called on young people to stay away from drug abuse, warning that it could destroy their future.
