The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command has destroyed over 18,000 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa in one raid operation targeting cannabis cultivators in the state.
The onslaught took place on September 11, 2025, at Ugbogui Forest, located in the Ovia South West Local Government of the state. NDLEA Edo state Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, while giving a brief on the recent dislodgement of the cannabis plantation cell, warned that the ugly development constitutes a serious threat to food security in the state.
In his words, “The massive cannabis farm destruction operation which was based on actionable intelligence is posing a serious threat to food security. If these forests can be utilised only for the cultivation of food and cash crops, the challenge of food shortage will be adequately addressed.
“This operation obviously underscores the agency’s commitment to combatting drug cultivation in the state, thereby reinforcing our efforts to rid our communities of the dangers posed by illicit drugs. The Edo State command has taken a bold step to cut off the illicit supply of cannabis with the destruction of a vast Cannabis sativa plantation spanning approximately 6.79 hectares, with an estimated yield of over 16,966 kilograms. At the farm, we successfully recovered one hundred and twelve bags of harvested and processed cannabis weighing 1,176 kilograms in the farm,” Mitchell stated.
Four male suspects linked to the cannabis plantation were apprehended during the operation, while taking refuge at their tents located within the farm. Three of them are from Akwa Ibom State, while one hails from Delta State. They have been identified as Ebenizer E. Wang, 48 years old, from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Oshare John, 45 years old, from Ughelli South, Delta State. Others are: Emmanuel Monday, 29,from Eket, Akwa Ibom State, and David Sunday, 30 , from Ugad, Akwa Ibom State.
The NDLEA commander confirmed that investigations are underway, and the suspects are expected to face charges in court soon. Members of the public were urged to continue providing intelligence to assist in the fight against drug-related crimes, as the NDLEA remains vigilant in promoting public health and safety.
