The Sokoto State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 146 suspects and seized 982.8 kilogrammes of illicit drugs over the past four months as part of an intensified crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse.
The State Commander, Alhaji Mustapha Muhammad Gidado, disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing journalists in Sokoto on the command’s achievements since he assumed office. He said the arrests spanned various age groups, including a 73-year-old suspect, highlighting the widespread nature of drug-related activities in the state.
According to Gidado, 13 suspects have already been convicted by courts of competent jurisdiction, while 18 others are currently facing trial. He said the command remains committed to aggressive prosecution to deter would-be offenders.
Beyond enforcement, the NDLEA commander noted that rehabilitation efforts were sustained during the period, with 18 drug-dependent individuals successfully rehabilitated and reunited with their families.
Detailing the seizures, Gidado said operatives intercepted 54 cartons of codeine-based cough syrup along the Nigeria–Niger Republic border, a major route used by trafficking syndicates. He added that 15 bags of cannabis sativa concealed in sacks of sawdust were recovered after being transported from Edo State to Sokoto.
Other items seized included 198 blocks of cannabis sativa, diazepam, and other illicit substances. Gidado described the seizures as evidence of the evolving tactics of traffickers and the scale of the challenge confronting the command.
He attributed the successes to the support of the Sokoto State Government, collaboration with sister security agencies, and timely intelligence from members of the public.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking, Gidado urged residents to continue providing credible information, assuring that all tips would be treated with strict confidentiality.
The latest figures come amid growing concerns over the social and security impact of drug abuse in Nigeria’s North-West, where authorities say illicit drugs continue to fuel crime, youth restiveness, and public health challenges.
