The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is actively garnering support for its anti-drug abuse initiatives, earning commendation for its enlightenment efforts.
This was highlighted during recent working visits by the Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, to prominent community leaders and sister agencies.
Engagement with the Esama of Benin Kingdom
Commander Ofoyeju paid a courtesy visit to the Esama of Benin Kingdom and Honorary Romanian Consul to Edo and Delta States, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, at his GRA residence.
The visit aimed to secure the influential elder statesman’s backing in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
Ofoyeju emphasized the NDLEA’s commitment to tackling the drug scourge through comprehensive strategies focusing on both supply control and demand reduction.
He articulated that a core mandate from the Chairman Chief Executive Officer, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) CON, is to unite all stakeholders in addressing Edo State’s drug problem.
“One of my mandates given by the Chairman, Brig. General Marwa, is to build a united front by bringing stakeholders under one canopy in confronting the drug challenge in the state. In recognition of your towering influence and strategic role as a champion of peace and safe society, we are here to solicit your fatherly support”.
He expressed confidence that the support of leaders like Chief Igbinedion would significantly amplify anti-drug advocacy efforts.
In response, Chief Igbinedion lauded Commander Ofoyeju and his team for their diligent work in sanitizing society, remarking, “Your efforts are vital and, importantly, lifesaving.”
He stressed the crucial role of the NDLEA in eliminating illicit drugs that imperil the health and well-being of citizens.
Collaboration with NAPTIP
Commander Ofoyeju also visited the Benin Zonal Command headquarters of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), where he met with Zonal Commander, Barrister Sam Offiah.
The meeting focused on fostering collaboration between the two agencies, with Ofoyeju highlighting the critical link between human trafficking and illicit drug trafficking.
He explained, “Understanding the nexus between these two critical issues is essential for strengthening our collective response. We understand that victims of drug trafficking are vulnerable tools in the hands of the traffickers, and it is important to adopt preventive strategies”.
The NDLEA commander stressed that synergy between the NDLEA and NAPTIP is imperative for a more robust fight against drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.
Bar. Sam Offiah, who welcomed the NDLEA entourage, outlined NAPTIP’s functions, including enforcing trafficking laws, preventing trafficking, coordinating investigations and prosecutions, providing victim assistance, and raising public awareness.
