The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State is adopting a holistic strategy to tackle the growing drug problem in the state.
This was disclosed by the Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, during a courtesy visit to the State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Ogbonika, in Benin City.
The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between the NDLEA, the Nigeria Police Force, and other key stakeholders committed to a crime-free society.
Held at the Edo State Police Command headquarters, the meeting had in attendance notable figures, including Honourable Ogheneovo Andrew, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Policy, and Reverend Father Dr Fidelis Arhedo, Executive Director of the Uromi Justice Development and Peace Centre.
Honourable Ogheneovo reiterated the state government’s firm resolve to dismantle drug trafficking networks. “Governor Monday Okpebholo is committed to eradicating illicit drugs from Edo State. I am pleased we are gathered to find a lasting solution to securing our communities,” he stated.
Commander Ofoyeju emphasised the importance of unified action among law enforcement and civil society in combating drug abuse.
“The fight against drug trafficking requires concerted efforts. We must leverage our resources, enhance intelligence sharing, and pursue joint operations to dismantle drug cartels.
Our aim goes beyond interception, we are committed to breaking the networks that sustain trafficking and promoting awareness through the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative of the Buba Marwa-led administration,” he said.
CP Ogbonika, in his remarks, highlighted the significance of a coordinated approach to law enforcement.
He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to supporting NDLEA operations and strengthening community engagement.
“Let us establish a strong stakeholders’ forum tasked with developing practical strategies to fight drugs and other forms of criminality across the state,” he proposed.
Honourable Andrew reiterated the state’s readiness to support strategic efforts to curb drug abuse.
“We are in this fight together, and the governor is determined to ensure our youth are shielded from the dangers of drugs,” he said.
Reverend Father Dr Arhedo stressed the need for community mobilisation, describing it as essential to winning the war on drugs.
He called for targeted awareness campaigns in schools, churches, and local organisations to reach the most vulnerable members of society.
The highlight of the event was the decoration of CP Ogbonika and Honourable Ogheneovo as WADA Partners by Commander Ofoyeju, along with the presentation of the latest edition of NDLEA Today magazine.
The meeting marks a significant step towards a more comprehensive and collaborative response to drug-related crime in Edo State.
