By Oluwakemi Kindness
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, has secured 974 drug-related convictions between January and March 2026, in what authorities describe as a major breakthrough in the fight against trafficking.
Among those convicted are 11 high-profile drug kingpins handed a combined 254 years imprisonment, marking one of the agency’s most significant prosecution milestones in recent years.
Breakdown of Convictions
Of the 974 convictions recorded, 899 were male while 75 were female.
Monthly figures show a steady rise in prosecutions:
• January: 265
• February: 316
• March: 393
Chairman of the agency, Mohamed Buba-Marwa, described the development as a “watershed moment” in Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign.
In a statement signed by NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, Marwa says the convictions send a strong signal that Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for drug syndicates.
“Securing 974 convictions in just three months is a testament to the relentless spirit of our officers and the resolve of the Nigerian state,” he said.
He added that the 254-year combined sentence handed to the kingpins underscores the severe consequences of drug-related offences.
High-Profile Cases
The agency highlighted several landmark convictions during the period.
An Italy-based businessman, Adegbite Solomon, also known as Obama, was sentenced to 130 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Lagos.
The court also ordered the revocation of his pharmacy licence, forfeiture of his pharmacy outlets, and seizure of funds across three bank accounts.
In a separate case, repeat offender Ridwan Animashaun was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Ibadan.
Other convictions include:
• Rauf Asogba and Seun Olaniyi – 17 years each for trafficking 1,779kg of skunk
• Jonathan Nuhu and Idris Yusuf – 15 years each
• Several others received seven-year jail terms across courts nationwide
Marwa commended the judiciary for accelerating the trial process, noting that swift justice remains the strongest deterrent against drug trafficking.
He also urged Nigerians to support the agency with credible intelligence.
“These victories belong to citizens whose information fuels our success,” he added.
