The Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has justified the agency’s aggressive stance on seizing the assets of drug barons and traffickers.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, Marwa explained that this strategy is part of the ongoing offensive against illicit drugs and cartels, which coincides with the weeklong activities marking the 2024 International Day Against Drugs and Illicit Trafficking. The event is organized in conjunction with stakeholders, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
According to a press release issued by Femi Babafemi Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters Abuja, Marwa highlighted the success of the agency’s offensive launched in January 2021, noting the arrests and prosecutions of several high-profile traffickers. He emphasized that the NDLEA’s rigorous investigations and prosecution efforts have led to significant convictions, including life imprisonment sentences for two serial traffickers in April.
Marwa attributed these successes to meticulous case preparations and the enactment of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2022, which enables the forfeiture of assets linked to criminal activities. This act places the burden of proving the legitimate origin of assets on the defendants, enhancing the NDLEA’s ability to secure convictions.
“Beyond securing convictions, we ensure that the assets used in the commission of these crimes or acquired through illicit means are forfeited to the federal government,” Marwa, represented by the Agency Secretary, Mr. Shadrach Haruna, stated. “This comprehensive approach has resulted in a high conviction rate and serves as a powerful deterrent against drug trafficking.”
Addressing the agency’s efforts in drug demand reduction, Marwa highlighted the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) program. This initiative, built on a ‘whole of society approach,’ has been highly effective as an advocacy tool for social action and public engagement. He emphasized that prevention is a key aspect of combating drug abuse, aligning with the theme for the 2024 World Drug Day: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Marwa outlined the weeklong activities planned to commemorate World Drug Day, including a Juma’at Service at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, June 21, a Walk Against Drugs in collaboration with MTN on Saturday, June 22, and a thanksgiving church service at the National Christian Centre on Sunday, June 23. The week will also feature a grand finale for the NDLEA’s secondary school essay competition, NGO Day activities, and outreach programs for out-of-school youths in markets and parks within the Federal Capital Territory.
Expressing gratitude to the federal and state governments for their support, Marwa acknowledged the contributions of international partners, including the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the British Border Force, and various Nigerian law enforcement agencies. He also thanked the media for their continuous support over the past three years.
In his remarks, UNODC Country Deputy Representative, Mr. Danilo Campisi, urged Nigerian governments and stakeholders to invest in drug use preventive measures. He highlighted projections indicating a 40% increase in drug use in Africa by 2030, driven by the youth population. Campisi emphasized the urgency of adopting scientific, evidence-based approaches to prevention and treatment, describing the situation as a national emergency.
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Campisi noted the success of the UNPLUGGED school-based Drug Prevention Programme, implemented in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education and several state governments, as a model for effective preventive measures.
