Photos: NDLEA Bags 974 Convictions, Drug Kingpins Slammed With 254-Year Jail Terms

The agency disclosed that the convictions included 11 high-profile drug kingpins who collectively received 254 years of imprisonment. Monthly breakdowns showed steady enforcement momentum, with 265 convictions recorded in January, 316 in February, and 393 in March. Of those convicted, 899 were male while 75 were female, reflecting the broad scope of the agency’s crackdown across different segments of society.

Among the most notable cases was that of Italy-based businessman Adegbite Solomon, also known as “Obama,” who was sentenced to 130 years in prison after being found guilty on 15 counts of drug-related offences. The Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Musa Kakaki, ruled on March 18 and ordered that the sentences run concurrently. The court also revoked his pharmacy licence and directed the forfeiture of his assets, including pharmacy outlets and funds held in multiple bank accounts.

In another ruling, Ridwan Animashaun was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Ibadan, marking his second conviction after a previous drug-related case in 2022. Additionally, Rauf Asogba and Seun Olaniyi each received 17-year sentences for trafficking substantial quantities of skunk, while Jonathan Nuhu and Idris Yusuf were handed 15-year jail terms. Several other offenders were sentenced to seven years across various jurisdictions.

Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa described the outcome as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against drug abuse and trafficking, praising the dedication of agency operatives and the support of the judiciary in ensuring swift prosecution of offenders. He further noted that the convictions serve as a strong warning to drug traffickers that enforcement efforts remain relentless and far-reaching, while urging continued public cooperation in providing intelligence to support ongoing operations.