NDLEA Edo drug raids to intensify before, during and after July 11 local government elections to curb drug-induced violence

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced plans to intensify raids on identified drug hotspots across Edo State ahead of the July 11 local government elections, as part of efforts to prevent drug-related violence and ensure peaceful polls.

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The Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this on Tuesday in Benin City while receiving the Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state, Obo Effanga.

Mitchell Ofoyeju said the planned operations would focus on disrupting the circulation of illicit substances often linked to electoral violence and other criminal activities.

According to him, the command will carry out targeted enforcement actions before, during and after the elections to deny criminal elements access to drugs that could be used to fuel unrest.

“We will conduct targeted raid operations on identified drug flashpoints before, during and after the elections,” Ofoyeju said.

“Our goal is to take illicit drugs off the streets and deny criminal elements the means to cause disruption.”

He added that peaceful and credible elections remain a national priority and stressed that the agency would continue to support efforts aimed at safeguarding the electoral process.

“Nigerians deserve peaceful and credible elections, and NDLEA will continue to play its part in ensuring that objective is achieved,” he stated.

Earlier, Obo Effanga commended the agency for its professionalism and support during previous elections in Edo State.

The electoral commissioner noted that NDLEA’s sustained efforts against drug abuse and trafficking have helped reduce incidents of violence associated with substance abuse during elections.

Effanga called for continued collaboration between INEC and the anti-narcotics agency, describing drug abuse as one of the major factors contributing to electoral disturbances.

The discussion formed part of broader preparations by stakeholders ahead of the July 11 local government elections in the state.

In a separate engagement, Mitchell Ofoyeju also hosted the President of the Faculty of Peace Organisation, Comrade Osunbor Omokaro, alongside members of the organisation’s delegation.

Osunbor Omokaro said the group remains committed to promoting peacebuilding, accountability, budget tracking and drug abuse prevention among young people.

He praised the NDLEA Edo Command for its efforts in reducing the availability of illicit drugs and advocated stronger cooperation in public awareness campaigns and community-based interventions.

According to him, sustained sensitisation and stakeholder engagement remain critical in addressing rising substance abuse among youths.

Responding, Ofoyeju welcomed the organisation’s support and reiterated the agency’s commitment to partnerships that promote a drug-free society.

“Drug abuse prevention requires collective action,” he said.

“We welcome partners who are committed to building a drug-free society through education, advocacy and accountability. Together, we can protect more young people from the dangers associated with illicit drug use.”

The NDLEA commander added that the agency would continue to strengthen cooperation with government institutions, civil society organisations and community groups to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse across Edo State.

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The planned NDLEA Edo Drug Raids come as security agencies intensify preparations to ensure a peaceful electoral environment ahead of the local government polls.