The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed that it destroyed more than 57 hectares of cannabis farms and arrested 281 suspects involved in drug-related offences across Ekiti State in the past year.
Speaking during a press conference ahead of the 2026 World Drug Day celebration, the Commander of the NDLEA in Ekiti State, Nanzing C. Mwakon, said the agency also secured 50 convictions and recovered over 6.3 tonnes of illicit substances.
According to him, the state command recorded major successes in the fight against drug trafficking, abuse and cultivation despite persistent challenges.
He revealed that one of the agency’s notable achievements was securing a 20-year jail term for Osita Akindele, who was convicted for drug-related offences. He also cited the arrest of two octogenarians, identified as 78-year-old Ogunjobi Samuel from Iwajowa-Ekiti and 80-year-old Oke Samuel from Efon-Alaaye-Ekiti, for possession and dealing in illicit substances.
Mwakon said the illicit cultivation of cannabis remains a major concern in the state because of its impact on communities, youth development and public safety.
He noted that the agency carried out 76 advocacy campaigns and 15 radio and television sensitisation programmes during the period, while 87 drug users received counselling and rehabilitation support.
The NDLEA commander called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, parents and community groups to tackle drug abuse and trafficking.
