Edo Governor Okpebholo Vows No Safe Haven for Drug Barons

The Edo State Government, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command and other relevant bodies, has called for innovative strategies to combat the increasing challenge of drug trafficking and abuse across the state. This consensus was reached by stakeholders who convened at the Festival Hall of Government House, Benin City, to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The event, held on Friday, centered around the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” with speakers emphasizing the crucial need for fresh, collaborative approaches to tackle the drug menace within Edo State and nationally.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking. Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Drug Policy and Trafficking Control, Andrew Efe, the governor stressed that a united front is essential to winning the battle against illicit drugs. Efe stated, “When drug traffickers think they are clever in crime, we will make them understand that we are more innovative in justice delivery. Edo State will not be safe for drug trafficking and substance abuse. If you bring drugs into this state, we will find you. We will seize your drugs, and you will face the full weight of the law. There will be no hiding place and no sacred cow.”

He further highlighted that the government and NDLEA cannot single-handedly win this war, urging that prevention must begin at home. “Let us talk to our children at home, in churches and mosques. Schools and faith institutions should make anti-drug education part of the moral curriculum,” Efe added. He also mentioned that the Edo State government is investing in youth empowerment and skills development programs to foster productive entrepreneurs who can generate wealth and contribute to the economy.

Mitchell Ofoyeju, the Edo State NDLEA Commander, shed light on the ongoing fight against drug trafficking and abuse. He detailed the intricate nature of the drug landscape, noting the emergence of synthetic drugs, the dark web’s role, and the necessity for a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder response. Ofoyeju remarked, “We cannot ignore the push factors of ignorance, poverty, unemployment, and peer pressure that drive many of our youth toward drugs,” urging parents and communities to proactively protect younger generations.

Providing mid-year statistics on drug control efforts in the state, Ofoyeju reported that the Edo State command apprehended 289 suspected drug traffickers, comprising 176 males and 113 females. A total of 35,008.38kgs of drugs were seized, including 14,705.31kgs of drugs confiscated and 20,303.07kgs of cannabis destroyed from plantations. Furthermore, 52 drug traffickers (47 males and 5 females) were convicted, while 135 individuals grappling with drug abuse problems (101 males and 34 females) received counselling. The command also conducted 33 anti-drug abuse sensitization programs, reaching 6,092 participants. Ofoyeju concluded by reiterating the command’s resolve to make Edo State an inhospitable environment for drug traffickers.

Mrs. Edesili Anani Okpebholo, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee, represented by Barrister Nimata Umar Ikhilor, wife of the Secretary to the State Government, emphasized the urgency of the situation. She warned, “We must also confront a new and insidious challenge. The battlefield is no longer limited to our borders and highways. It has entered the phones and bedrooms of our children through the very tools of social media. If we continue to fight with yesterday’s methods, we will lose today’s youth. Our response must be smarter, not just louder.”

Miss Edo International 2026, Bossey Vivian, also spoke, advocating for societal change to combat drug abuse. She noted, “Drug abuse cuts across age, gender, and social status, leaving devastating effects on individuals and families. I will use my voice to address issues that affect families.” Goodwill messages were also delivered by the Edo State Commissioner of Police and the Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Army 4 Brigade, among others. The event also featured a playlet on drug abuse prevention by the National Youth Service Corps Drug Control Club from Ikpoba-Okha, and a quiz competition where Pioneer Education Centre School 1 emerged victorious, followed by Pioneer Education Centre School 2 and Inomwan Foundation Schools in second and third places, respectively.