A joint operation conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, has resulted in the destruction of two cannabis plantations totaling 0.544 hectares, with an estimated yield of 1,360.23 kg.
The operation also led to the destruction of 107 kg of processed cannabis, including cannabis seeds, at Eko Camp in Illushi, Esan South-East Local Government Area.
Edo State NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju announced the development in a statement on Monday, noting that the operation took place on September 23, 2026. During the raid, two male suspects—Ajeh Egwuda, 43, and Nonso Ajodhe—both from Esan South-East, were apprehended. According to Ofoyeju, the suspects attributed their involvement in cannabis cultivation to poverty and negative peer influence.
Ofoyeju further detailed that Egwuda was cultivating a 0.068-hectare farm with an estimated yield of 170 kg, while Ajodhe was responsible for a larger plantation of 0.476 hectares, expected to produce 1,190 kg. “Combined, the two farms measured 0.544 hectares, yielding a total of 1,360.23 kg of cannabis sativa. Additionally, 107 kg of processed cannabis and seeds were recovered from the site,” he said.
Describing the operation as part of ongoing efforts to curb drug abuse and trafficking in Edo State, Ofoyeju issued a stern warning to those using forests and farmlands for illicit activities. “The NDLEA Edo State Command will not relent until cannabis cultivation is eradicated from our communities. We are deploying intelligence-driven surveillance, community engagement, and decisive enforcement in this campaign,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating drug-related issues and highlighted ongoing collaboration with the military and other stakeholders to dismantle drug networks. “This operation demonstrates both our capability and our determination to safeguard our communities from the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking. We will continue to work with the armed forces and other partners to dismantle these networks and mitigate the impact of illicit substances in our society.”
Ofoyeju also expressed gratitude to Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, Commanding Officer of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, for supporting drug enforcement initiatives in the state. He emphasized plans to strengthen partnerships with traditional rulers, community leaders, and sister security agencies in Esan South-East and other affected areas, and urged residents to provide timely information to help apprehend other members of the suspected cannabis networks.
