NDLEA Cracks Down on Drug Trafficking Networks, Arrests Key Figures

NDLEA nab multiple drug trafficking suspects
They have arrested different drug kingpins across Nigeria
A vast number of Illegal drugs have been recovered

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against drug trafficking, with arrests spanning multiple states and seizures of illicit substances and counterfeit documents.

On January 1, 2025, NDLEA operatives apprehended 61-year-old Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye, a well-known Lagos socialite, for her involvement in drug trafficking.

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Dubbed “Iya Ruka” in the underworld, Elediye was detained at her Okota mansion following the interception of a truck carrying 1,540 kilograms of imported cannabis. The arrest exposes her dual identity as a fabric importer and a drug cartel leader.

In a related operation, U.S.-trained filmmaker Emeka Emmanuel Mbadiwe was arrested in a Lekki hotel for trafficking 17.3 kilograms of Loud, a potent cannabis strain.

His associate, Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James, was earlier detained at a warehouse in Ikeja linked to the shipment.

In Ilorin, two young women, including a fresh graduate and a student of the University of Ilorin, were arrested on December 29, 2024, for producing and selling drug-laced cupcakes.

NDLEA operatives recovered 42 pieces of the drugged treats from their residence.

An ex-convict, Sodade Sunday Eniola, and three accomplices were arrested in Lagos for running a passport smuggling syndicate.

Authorities recovered 52 passports hidden in shoe soles and food items destined for Canada, Russia, and other countries.

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NDLEA seized 316,800 bottles of codeine syrup at Port Harcourt Ports Complex and 149,090 pills of tramadol in Kano.

These operations reflect the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and trafficking.

Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa commended the agency’s officers for their dedication and balanced approach to drug control and awareness campaigns.