NDLEA destroys 51 hectares of cannabis farms, arrests 281 drug suspects in Ekiti
By Idowu Adebomi
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has destroyed more than 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations and arrested 281 suspects for offences ranging from illicit drug trafficking and peddling to substance abuse across Ekiti State within the last year.
The Ekiti State Commander of the agency, Rufus Aina, disclosed this on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti during activities marking the 2026 World Drug Day.
According to him, the command also secured the conviction of 50 suspects, while several other cases are still pending before the Federal High Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti.
World Drug Day is observed annually on June 26. The theme for the 2026 edition is “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
Aina described the widespread cultivation of cannabis in several communities across the state as one of the greatest challenges confronting the agency.
He said, “In Ekiti State, the challenge is particularly significant due to the illicit cultivation of cannabis sativa in commercial quantities across many local government areas and communities. While some may see cannabis cultivation as a source of livelihood, its illegal production, trafficking, peddling, and consumption have devastating consequences, including criminality, insecurity, school dropouts, substance dependence, and the destruction of livelihoods, forest reserves, and communities.”
Highlighting some of the command’s landmark achievements, Aina disclosed that one Osho Akindele was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after being convicted of possessing various illicit substances.
He also revealed the arrest of two octogenarians for their alleged involvement in drug-related offences.
“Also worthy of mention is the arrest of two octogenarians—78-year-old Ogunjobi Samuel from Ilupeju-Ekiti and 80-year-old Oke Samuel from Efon-Alaaye-Ekiti—for the possession of and dealing in illicit substances,” he said.
The NDLEA commander called on residents of the state to strengthen their collaboration with the agency in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
“Let us renew our collective resolve to confront persistent issues, address emerging challenges, and adopt innovative responses that will guarantee a safer, healthier, and drug-free society for all,” Aina urged.
He also expressed appreciation to sister security agencies, non-governmental organisations, the Drug-Free Community Development Service of the National Youth Service Corps, students, and the Kayode Adamolekun Foundation for their continued support of the agency’s campaign against illicit drugs in Ekiti State.