The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Enugu Command, has seized 929.463 kilogrammes of various illicit substances and secured the conviction of 53 drug-related dealers in Enugu State. The command's commander, Owoputi Adekunle, disclosed this on Friday during the commemoration of the 2026 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Enugu.
Seizures and Convictions
The seized drugs, including Cannabis Sativa and methamphetamine (Crystal Meth or 'Mkpuru Mmiri'), were confiscated between November 2025 and June 2026. Within the same period, the command counselled 157 clients, while 23 others are currently undergoing rehabilitation. A total of 53 suspects have been convicted, and 111 cases are pending before the Federal High Court. Assets acquired as proceeds of crime were also forfeited to the federal government.
Commander's Statement
Mr. Adekunle described drug abuse and illicit trafficking as major threats to public health, security, and national development. 'Drug abuse destroys lives, families and communities. It particularly affects our youth, who are the future of our nation,' he said. He urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts toward prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation. 'As law enforcement officers, we remain committed to reducing the supply of illicit drugs while working with communities, schools, religious organisations, traditional rulers and other security agencies to promote a drug-free society.'
Governor Mbah's Call to Youth
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by Commissioner for Health George Ugwu, urged young people to reject drug abuse and take advantage of state government opportunities in agriculture, digital technology, and mechanised farming. 'We cannot build the economy with youths who are not hardworking. The consequences of drug abuse are enormous and we must ensure our youths remain productive,' he stated. Special adolescent health units are being established to address drug abuse among young people.
Keynote Lecture
Roland Okereke, senior registrar at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, described substance abuse as a 'chronic illness' that destroys lives and limits future opportunities. He emphasised that prevention remains the most effective strategy, noting that many people with substance use disorders delay seeking medical care due to stigma and poor access to treatment. The South-east has only one federal neuropsychiatric hospital providing specialised treatment for substance use disorders, resulting in a significant treatment gap. Commonly abused substances include alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, cocaine, hallucinogens, and emerging synthetic psychoactive drugs. He warned that drug abuse contributes to increased mortality, crime, violence, terrorism, and other social problems, urging families to avoid stigmatising affected persons and encourage professional help.
Traditional Rulers' Call
The Chairman of Ezeagu Traditional Rulers Council, Emmanuel Anichebe, called on parents to pay closer attention to their children's upbringing and build closer relationships to provide proper guidance before negative peer influence. Highlights of the celebration included the decoration of Governor Mbah as an ambassador against drug abuse, drama presentations, debates, and question-and-answer sessions on drug abuse awareness.
