NDLEA arrests elderly men, others in nationwide drug busts

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to eradicating illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria, with recent operations leading to the arrest of several individuals across various states. These operations, detailed in a statement by NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, underscore the agency's relentless pursuit of drug peddlers, regardless of age or location.

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Pa Ofiel was nabbed by NDLEA officers on Tuesday 28th April 2026 during a raid operation at Samek by Powerline, Aba, Abia state following credible intelligence that he was dealing in illicit substances.

In a particularly striking development, the NDLEA apprehended an 83-year-old man, Pa John Ofiel, in Abia State, and a 78-year-old, Ogunjobi Samuel, in Ekiti State. Their arrests, along with the seizure of significant quantities of cannabis and other substances, highlight the pervasive nature of drug trafficking and the agency's broad reach. The recovery of 700 grams of skunk from Pa Ofiel, who reportedly transitioned from shoemaking to the drug trade, and 350 grams from Samuel, paints a grim picture of the challenges faced.

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As at the time of his arrest, 700 grams of skunk, a strain of cannabis, packaged in retail sachets were recovered from him.

Further operations in Oyo State led to the arrest of two women, Rebecca King and Olaniyan Opeyemi, in connection with the seizure of 1.925kg of Colorado, a synthetic cannabis. In Ibadan, Taofik Adeyemi, a suspected drug dealer, and his salesman Mustapha Oyerinde were apprehended, with two associates already facing prosecution. The agency's efforts extended to Osun State, where a driver, Oladayo Awoyemi, was arrested for transporting skunk and methamphetamine, leading to the subsequent arrest of the alleged owner, Ifedayo Babalola.

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350 grams of the same psychoactive substance were seized from him at the time of his arrest.

In the North-East, NDLEA operatives in Borno State seized a massive cache of 76,440 tablets of Tramadol 225mg from Yahaya Shehu. Another operation intercepted 14,000 capsules of Tramadol, leading to the arrest of the alleged owner, Abdulhamid Mahmud. These successes are a testament to the NDLEA's diligent intelligence gathering and operational prowess, reinforcing its role as a critical bulwark against the scourge of drug trafficking that threatens the fabric of our society. The agency's continued vigilance and decisive action are crucial in safeguarding our communities and ensuring a drug-free Nigeria.

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Rebecca was arrested while conveying the substance along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Wednesday, April 29, while Opeyemi was picked up during a follow-up operation at Iwo Road, Ibadan, when she allegedly attempted to take delivery of the consignment.