By Tola Gbadamosi
The Ondo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the destruction of over 10,143 kilograms of cannabis, along with various other illicit substances, as part of its intensified war against drug abuse and trafficking in the state.
State Commander Nanzing Sallah disclosed this while briefing journalists on the command’s activities from January to date, noting that the achievements were made possible through the synergy with other security agencies, the media, and community stakeholders.
According to Sallah the agency seized 10,143.053 kilograms of cannabis sativa, 1.702 kilograms of methamphetamine, 2.193 kilograms of psychotropic substances, 363.8 kilograms of “scooches”, and 10.137 kilograms of “monkey tail” a locally brewed alcoholic mixture laced with drugs.
“In addition to the seizures, the command destroyed 74.786 hectares of cannabis farms across various parts of the state,” he said. “If such land were used for agriculture, it would have contributed immensely to food production and food security in Ondo State. Instead, the cultivation of cannabis degrades the soil and destroys the forest ecosystem.”
Sallah further revealed that the NDLEA also seized four vehicles, one motorcycle, and ₦282,320 cash, all of which have been forfeited to the Federal Government.
Additionally, 25 vehicles, 13 motorcycles, and ₦2,363,670 are currently under interim forfeiture pending court decisions.
The command, he said, recorded 135 pending cases before the Federal High Court and secured 52 convictions within the period under review.
While commending the efforts of his officers, Sallah appealed to the State Government for greater logistical support, especially in areas such as rehabilitation and counseling of drug users.
He also urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to help monitor their communities and discourage the cultivation and consumption of illicit drugs.
“We all have a moral duty to protect our youths and safeguard the future of our society,” he said. “The fight against drug abuse cannot be won by the NDLEA alone. We need the cooperation of all stakeholders, including the media, to spread the message that drug use destroys lives and communities.”
The Commander reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to making Ondo State a drug-free society through continuous enforcement, sensitisation, and collaboration with the public.