The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed over 8,000 kilograms of illicit drugs in Yobe State, marking the first-ever public destruction of narcotics in the state since the establishment of the NDLEA command more than two decades ago.
The event, which took place in Damaturu on Tuesday, was described as a “historic and symbolic milestone” in the country’s renewed fight against drug abuse and trafficking. The NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd.), said the exercise demonstrated the agency’s commitment to accountability and transparency in handling drug exhibits seized from offenders.
Represented by the Director of Operations and General Investigations, Mr. Ahmed Ningi, Marwa said the destruction of the substances followed due judicial process and approval by the Federal High Court in Damaturu. He explained that the public burning of seized drugs is essential to assure Nigerians that such substances will never find their way back into the streets or markets.
According to NDLEA records, the Yobe State Command destroyed a total of 8,166.95 kilograms of illicit substances, comprising 6,791.25 kilograms of Cannabis sativa and 1,375.65 kilograms of psychotropic substances such as tramadol, diazepam, and rohypnol. Smaller quantities of cocaine and heroin were also incinerated — 0.04 kilograms and 0.012 kilograms, respectively.
The NDLEA Chairman commended the officers and men of the Yobe Command for their professionalism and resilience in tackling drug abuse in the state. He noted that the agency’s operations have continued to yield positive results, with increasing numbers of seizures, arrests, and convictions.
“Today’s exercise is not just about burning drugs,” Marwa said. “It is a clear demonstration of our resolve to protect our communities from substances that destroy lives, families, and futures. We remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria becomes a drug-free nation.”
Marwa disclosed that since the creation of the NDLEA Yobe Command in 2003, the agency has seized a total of 16,011.13 kilograms of illicit drugs. Out of this amount, the 8,166.95 kilograms destroyed had received judicial clearance, while another 7,844.18 kilograms remain pending court approval for destruction.
Within the same period, the NDLEA has arrested 2,345 suspects, secured 349 convictions, rehabilitated 11 drug-dependent individuals, and counseled 1,695 persons through its rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The Command has also conducted over 190 sensitisation campaigns in schools, religious institutions, and community centres to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
Representing Governor Mai Mala Buni at the event, Deputy Governor Idi Barde Gubana reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the NDLEA’s efforts in curbing the menace of drug trafficking and abuse. He described the destruction exercise as a significant step in promoting public health and safety in Yobe State.
“Drug abuse is one of the major contributors to insecurity and youth restiveness in our society,” Gubana said. “The government of Yobe State will continue to partner with the NDLEA and other security agencies to ensure that our state remains safe, productive, and drug-free.”
He commended the NDLEA for its professionalism and thanked the judiciary for its prompt handling of drug-related cases, noting that such synergy was vital in the ongoing fight against narcotics.
The Yobe State Commander of the NDLEA, Mr. Apeh Reuben, said the destruction of the seized drugs serves as a warning to drug dealers and traffickers operating in the state. “This is a clear message that Yobe State is not a safe haven for illicit drug activities. Our operations will continue to intensify until every community in Yobe is free from the scourge of drugs,” he said.
Reuben further highlighted that the command has strengthened its collaboration with traditional rulers, youth leaders, and religious institutions to combat drug demand through education, counselling, and awareness campaigns.
The destruction exercise was witnessed by representatives from the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and members of the public. Officials from the NDLEA’s Directorate of Forensics also verified the authenticity of the destroyed substances in accordance with legal requirements.
The event was widely praised as a landmark achievement in the NDLEA’s nationwide campaign against drug trafficking and abuse. Observers noted that the exercise would serve both as a deterrent to offenders and a demonstration of the government’s determination to rid the country of narcotics.
With this development, Yobe joins the growing list of states where the NDLEA has conducted public destruction of seized drugs under the leadership of Brigadier General Marwa. The agency says it will continue to pursue a balanced strategy that combines enforcement with rehabilitation, prevention, and community engagement to build a healthier, drug-free Nigeria.
