The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has characterized recent remarks made by Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru (APC Kwara South) as driven by vendetta rather than legitimate concern. Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman of the NDLEA, made this statement during a media briefing on Monday, addressing the senator’s claims of corruption within the agency.
Marwa, represented by Mr. Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy, noted that the NDLEA had previously conducted a raid on Ashiru’s residence in Ilorin, Kwara State, where a significant quantity of drugs was recovered. Additionally, three of the senator’s aides were arrested and prosecuted, including one who was sentenced to prison in June of this year.
Babafemi criticized Ashiru for labeling the NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised government agency in Nigeria” during a Senate debate on a bill proposing the establishment of a National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation. Ashiru argued that the NDLEA’s failures have contributed to the rising rates of drug trafficking in the country, thereby justifying the creation of another drug-related agency.
The NDLEA described the senator’s comments as unfounded and defamatory. Babafemi emphasized that the agency felt compelled to respond to Ashiru’s allegations, which were made during a public debate on October 15, 2024. He expressed disappointment that the senator did not clarify his position after a week had passed since his initial remarks.
The agency detailed its encounters with Ashiru, including a raid on his home on February 4, 2024, based on credible intelligence that it was being used as a drug hub. During this operation, two aides were arrested, while a third suspect escaped. Furthermore, the NDLEA conducted a separate raid in Offa, Ashiru’s hometown, where illicit drugs were seized from one of his associates.
Babafemi stated that attempts to influence the agency’s actions regarding these cases were rebuffed, and the individuals involved were prosecuted. Despite the senator’s allegations, the NDLEA has received international accolades for its efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse.
He noted that the day following Ashiru’s comments, the NDLEA inaugurated a new Marine Command Headquarters in Lagos, funded by the UK government, highlighting the agency’s ongoing collaboration with international partners.
The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and transparency, citing over 52,000 arrests and more than 9,000 convictions in the past three years, including three life sentences this year. The agency has also engaged in over 7,000 awareness activities and provided treatment to more than 33,000 drug users.
In light of Ashiru’s allegations, the NDLEA maintained that such statements are rooted in malice and misrepresentation. The agency vowed to continue its efforts to dismantle illicit drug networks, including those allegedly linked to the senator.
This development follows remarks made by another senator, Kawu Sumaila (NNPP Kano South), who also criticized politicians for contributing to the drug crisis among youth. Sumaila’s comments were deemed out of order by the Deputy Senate President during the session.
The NDLEA remains resolute in its mission, undeterred by the senator’s attacks, as it continues to combat drug-related issues across Nigeria.