The Delta State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it destroyed 36.2 hectares of suspected cannabis plantations and seized illicit drugs valued at N450 million between June 2025 and June 2026.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, John-Kennedy Edoziem, disclosed this in an interview in Asaba on Wednesday.
Edoziem said the command recovered large quantities of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, Tramadol, Exol-5, Diazepam/Bromazepam, Laughing Gas, Swinol/Rohypnol, Methamphetamine, Cocaine and Heroin from different parts of the state.
According to him, the total volume of solid drug exhibits seized during the period stood at 1,759.9 kilogrammes, while liquid exhibits amounted to 10,596.6 litres.
He said the command destroyed 10.2 hectares of suspected cannabis plantations in Emu-Obiogo community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, 11 hectares in Obiaruku, Ukwani Local Government Area, and 15 hectares in Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area.
”This brings the total suspected cannabis plantations destroyed within the period under review to 36.2 hectares.”
Edoziem also disclosed that operatives raided a warehouse at Oko Market in Asaba where illicit substances were stored for distribution.
“Recovered exhibits include Tramadol, Rohypnol, Hypnox, Diazepam, Exol-5, Codeine, and other controlled substances with an estimated street value exceeding ₦150,000,000.
“The command also intercepted two commercial buses carrying illicit drugs worth over ₦300,000,000 along the Onitsha-Asaba Expressway,” he said.
The spokesperson added that the command secured 235 convictions within the review period, while 204 cases remained pending before the Federal High Courts in Asaba and Warri.
He further stated that 623 drug users received counselling, while 14 persons were rehabilitated.
Edoziem said the NDLEA State Commander, Halilu Hamidu, remained committed to reducing both the demand for illicit drugs and the supply networks sustaining their distribution.
“We shall continue to work closely with all stakeholders to build communities where drugs are more difficult to access, distribute, and less attractive to potential users,” Edoziem said.
He noted that the agency had strengthened preventive drug education through the establishment of War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) clubs in secondary schools across the state.
The spokesperson added that the command was partnering with the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC) to combat drug abuse among students.
“These clubs provide safe platforms where students are equipped with the knowledge, values, and life skills needed to resist drug use and make informed decisions about their future.
“In a united campaign against drug abuse, the command, in partnership with the MTN Foundation, carried out a sensitisation walk which served as a reminder that the fight against drug abuse requires the active participation of every member of the society.
“These efforts are gradually building stronger awareness, promoting shared responsibility, and fostering a more resilient society that is better equipped to confront the challenges of substance abuse,” he said.
Edoziem said the advocacy programme had also been extended to tertiary institutions, religious organisations, workplaces and community gatherings.
“The advocacy programme has been extended to tertiary institutions, religious organisations, workplaces, and community gatherings to warn against the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention and early intervention,” he said.
He appreciated the Delta State Government, security agencies and other stakeholders for their support and commitment to drug control efforts.
According to him, the achievements recorded over the past year were made possible through cooperation among stakeholders.
“Particularly noteworthy is the cooperation enjoyed through Operation Delta Sweep.
“This has enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, and improved security outcomes in our collective efforts to combat drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
“We equally appreciate our sister law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, religious organisations, educational institutions, media partners and youth groups.
“We also appreciate the support from non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations, and all community stakeholders whose contributions continue to advance the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the state,” he added.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to deploying all lawful means to protect citizens from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.
