Category: Defence/Security

Drug

By Usman Aliyu

Benin, June 26, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it arrested 220 suspects for drug-related offences in Edo from February till date.

NDLEA Commander in Edo, Mr Callys Alumona, disclosed this in Benin on Wednesday in his address at an event to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

According to Alumona, the suspects include 148 males and 72 females.

The NDLEA boss noted, however, that 18 convictions were secured with 115 trials currently pending before the Federal High Court in Benin.

“It is interesting to note our effort in eradicating substance use in Edo state, especially, Ihama Road, Boundary Road, TV Road, Sapele Road axis of Benin, Ekpoma, Uromi, Auchi, Igarra, Abudu and others is yielding positive results.

“Worthy to note also is the rigged determination of the command to dismantle and sanitise the two notorious drug areas in Benin City – Ihama Road and Country Home.

“Both petty dealers and users have been consistently arrested and drugs seized.

“Two drug barons out of the four under watchlist that distribute drugs to these notorious locations have been arrested and are currently facing trial,” he said.

The commander said the command also seized a total of 1,676.99 Kilogrammes of illicit drugs and 3,558 bottles of Codeine-based syrup, a substance that is usually abused.

He said that Cannabis farms, measuring a total of 18.5 hectares, and approximately 46.251 kilogrammes of the substance were destroyed in the state within the period.

He, however, recounted that the command rehabilitated and counselled 154 suspected drug addicts, eight of which were indoor clients.

Notwithstanding the success story, the NDLEA commander said the agency lacked adequate operational vehicles in the state.

He also hoped to see improved volunteering of credible information to aid an intelligence-led policing of the state.

He described the 2024 theme, “Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention”, as apt.

The agency, he said, was already investing in prevention by mounting a serious war against drugs.

Such steps, he said, include supply reduction via arrest and prosecution, and demand reduction through counselling and rehabilitation of victims.

In his address, Edo Commissioner for Health, Dr Samuel Alli, called for renewed commitment and collaboration amongst security agencies to combat the menace.

The commissioner also stressed the need to address the underlying issues such as poverty and ignorance that usually lead the youth to indulge in illicit affairs.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the commissioner was represented by Dr Adesuwa Urhoghide-Edigin, Director, Regulation & Monitoring in the ministry.

NAN reports that the event featured lectures and plays by the NDLEA drama group and members of the National Youth Service Corps. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AUO/CHOM/MAS

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Moses Solanke

WDD: NGO raises concern over proposed death penalty for drug offenders

Death
By Ibironke Ariyo

Abuja, June 26, 2024 (NAN) An NGO, Hope Behind Bars Africa (HBBA), has raised concern over the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) proposed amendment to impose death penalty as maximum punishment for drug offenders.

The Executive Director of the organisation, Mrs Oluwafunke Adeoye, said the proposed amendment would not curb the scourge during a news conference to commemorate the 2024 World Drug Day on Wednesday in Abuja.

Adeoye urged the National Assembly to critically review and reverse its position on the use of Death Penalty for Drug offence in Nigeria.

She said that the proposal represented a severe setback for human dignity and criminal justice reforms in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Proposed Amendment, known as the NDLEA (Amendment) Bill, 2024, encompasses diverse objectives, including enhancing the operational efficiency of the NDLEA.

NAN reports that other objectives also include facilitating the establishment of state-of-the-art laboratories for drug analysis among others, all of which are very much welcome.

However, a major amendment highlighted in the bill is the modification of Section 11 of the existing act, which pertains to the punishment of drug offenses.

Adeoye said that the previous legislation prescribed life imprisonment for offence involving the importation of hard drugs.

“However, the amended version introduces a much stricter penalty – the death penalty. After extensive consideration, the bill passed its third reading and received unanimous Senate approval.

“This development reflects a fearful stance against progressive criminal justice reforms in Nigeria.

“On this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold human rights and human dignity and to promote justice that restores.

“Hope Behind Bars Africa firmly opposes the introduction of the death penalty for drug offenses in Nigeria.

“We urge the National Assembly to reconsider this bill and focus on progressive, humane, and effective solutions to address the drug endemic,“ he said.

She said “On this WDD observed annually on June 26 to promote action and cooperation for a drug-free world, we believe it is crucial to amend the NDLEA Act.

Adeoye called on the national assembly to focus on Including appropriate proactive measures to block the pipeline through which people were able to access illicit drugs.

She also called on the lawmakers to develop detailed guidelines for appropriate imprisonment and fines for drug offenses by categorising them based on the type of narcotic and specific quantities involved.

“Also, discriminalisation of low-level drug use or implementation of non-custodial sanctions alongside adequate mental health support.

“There is need to Adopt harm reduction strategies by strengthening social protection systems and implementing policies that focus on public health approaches to drug use, access to treatment and rehabilitation programmes.

“Also, Investment in the capacity development  of law enforcement officers,  judicial officers and other stakeholders who handle drug-related cases.

“Enhancing oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse and ensure that legal processes adhere to human rights standards will go a long way,“ she said.

NAN reports that the Senate on May 10 approved a death penalty for drug offenders found guilty of drug offence .

ICA/ACA/SH

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Edited by Chidinma Agu/Sadiya Hamza

The Commander of NDLEA in Kaduna, Samaila Danmallam, while addressing Newsmen on Wednesday in Kaduna

Arrest

By Sani Idris

Kaduna, Jun.26, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it seized 7,362.645kg of illicit drugs and secured conviction of 109 suspects from 1,165 arrests made in Kaduna State from June 2023 to date.

The Commander of the NDLEA, Kaduna State Command, Mr Samaila Danmallam, said this while addressing newsmen to commemorate the United Nations International Day Against Illicit Drugs Abuse and Trafficking on Wednesday in Kaduna.

The theme of the 2024 celebration, which holds annually on June 26 to mark the Day is, : “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.

Danmallam said that the command seized 3,147.820kg of cannabis, 0.225kg of heroin, 0.457kg of cocaine and 0.674kg of methamphetamine, 108.442kg of tramadol and 4.105.027kg of psychotropic drugs within the period under review.

He also gave a breakdown of the 1,165 people arrested  to comprise of 1,119 males and 46 females.

According to him, the command prosecuted 203 suspects out of the 1,165 people arrested and secured the conviction of 109 during the period

On the drug demand reduction programme of the command, Danmallam said that it had achieved significant success in the antidrug sensitisation, treatment and rehabilitation of drug abusers.

He said that the command during the period under review rehabilitated 76 persons and counseled 67 others.

The commander said further that the celebration of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was aimed at strengthening action and cooperation in
achieving a world free of drug abuse.

“This year’s World Drug Day campaign recognises that effective drug policies must be rooted in science, research, full
economic, and health implications of drug use,

“This year’s theme: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”, is a call to raise awareness, advocate for investment, empower communities, facilitate dialogue and collaboration, and promote evidence-based policy making.

“It is also a call to engage communities, empower youths, and promote international cooperation,” he said.

Danmallam thanked Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State for donating two operational vehicles to the agency.

He also thanked Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the Federal House of Representative, who recently provided solar light panels in the NDLEA Zaria office.

The Commander also commended other critical stakeholders including the military and paramilitary for their complementary roles and support towards achieving the NDLEA’s mandate.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that in commemoration of the day, the NDLEA Command held an awareness and enlightenment walk within the state’s metropolis.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

SA/AOS
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Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Kogi Governor’s wife set to build rehabilitation centre for addicts – Aide

Drugs

By Thompson Yamput

Lokoja, June 26, 2024 ( NAN) The wife of Kogi Governor,  Hajiya Safinat Ododo, is to has build a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts in the state

Ms Eunice Achimugu, Special Adviser (SA) to the Governor on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, made this known while addressing newsmen in Lokoja on Wednesday.

Achimugu said that the governor’s wife also promised to build a skill acquisition centre, where youths, including drugs addicts under rehabilitation, could be trained for various skills to be useful to the society.

She explained that the measures taken were part of the state government collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kogi Command to fight illicit drug abuse and trafficking in the state.

“It’ll be wrong if we just sit and watch our youths being destroyed by illicit drugs. The youths are the leaders of tomorrow and must be protected.

“Drastic measures have to be taken to save our youths, who are ignorant of the Inherent danger in those illicit drugs, ” she said.

The SA said that part of the plan in waging was against drug abuse, was just showing video clips but visiting schools to sensitise the pupils/students against the danger of Illicit drugs.

According to her, this government would keep the collaboration with NDLEA to fight the menace and rescue the youths from destruction.

“This is why we joined hands with NDLEA in celebration of the United Nations Day Against drug Abuse and trafficking with the theme: “Addressing Drug Challenges In Health And Humanitarian Crisis” June, 2024”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
TYC/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

Drug Abuse: NGO seeks investment in prevention, treatment programmes

Prevention
By Ibironke Ariyo
Abuja, June 26, 2024 (NAN) An NGO, Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse initiative (AKH-TRACADA) has urged stakeholders and government at all levels to invest in prevention and treatment programmes to stem the tide of drug abuse in the country.

The Founder of the Organisation, Mr Belonwu Ezeanyaeche made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 World Drug Day theme is: “Evidence is clear; invest in prevention,”.

Ezeanyaeche who also doubles as the National Coordinator said drug abuse remained a global menance that should be jointly tackle by all to curb its upsurge and the devastating effects in the society.

He stressed the need for the Federal Government to begin to see the issue of drug abuse as a public health problem.

He said that drugs, substances abuse and illicit drug trafficking were the template behind most of the crime being perpetrated in the country.

According to him, about 70 to 75 per cent crimes committed globally were under the influence of drugs. Wherever there is crime, there is drug, and wherever there is drug there is crime.

”The need to prevent drug abuse particularly at the grassroots has become imperative, because drug problem is not respective of ages, races, genders or social status.

“The government need to invest so much more in prevention and treatment programmes which include: training, sensitisation, advocacy, policy formulation that will aid to stem the tide of drug abuse.

”Government at all levels must ensure that treatment centres are available, prevention programmes be on the way, and let people who are in drug owned up to the reality and be ready to change,” he said.

The NGO boss advised those who already involved in drug abuse to come to the point of making the decision to really want to quit drug abuse, and seek the right help.

He emphasised that one way to effectively prevent drug abuse among youths, was by giving them self-confidence, strength, skills and abilities to say no to drugs.

He assured the readiness of the NGO to collaborate with all concerned to prevent drug abuse and the harm that drugs could cause to families and society in general.

”We will continually work together with law enforcement agencies to enforce drug laws to stem and seize the flow of illicit drugs.

“Together, we can tackle the world drug problem, “he affirmed.

The NGO boss called for partnership with spirited organisations and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in capacity building especially in the thematic areas of drug abuse, sensitisation, awareness and preventive strategy.

He advised the young people not to ruin their lives by engaging in drug abuse, while enjoining parents to watch over their children and guide them in the right direction.

Ezeanyaeche assured that the NGO would continue to work with the media and drug enforcement agency to achieve its purpose of a drug-free society.

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit trafficking, is marked on 26th June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

ICA/BRKl/SH

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Edited by AbdulFatai Beki/Sadiya Hamza

Extortion

By Monday Ajogun

Onitsha (Anambra), June 25, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Anambra has launched a manhunt for a yet-to-be-identified officer,  who allegedly extorted the sum of N810,000 from one of its victims.

The command Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday.

According to Ikenga, the command is aware of the information on X social media platform of the alleged extortion of the sum of N810,000 by a yet-to-be-identified officer of the command.

“We have initiated steps to identify the alleged officer; information about the incident has been escalated to Area Commander, Onitsha, for necessary actions.

“The command also wishes to invite the victim to its Headquarters in Awka to get information that will help in facilitating the necessary procedures involved in the process,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AJOM/CHOM/MNA

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

Recruitment

By Monday Ijeh

Abuja, June 25, 2024 (NAN) The Police Service Commission (PSC) said it has not and would not cancel the list of successful candidates released for recruitment into Constables cadre of the Nigeria Police Force.

The Head of Press and Public Relations of PSC, Mr Ikechukwu Ani, stated this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ani said the clarification was followed by the statement being circulated in the social media, alleging that, PSC had succumbed to pressure and cancelled the final list of successful candidates.

According to him, the statement did not emanate from PSC and we urge the public to disregard same.

He added that the recruitment exercise was conducted in clear adherence to relevant guidelines and provisions of the law.

He said the commission had just concluded a routine maintenance of its portal containing the list of the successful candidates.

“The commission is in control of the situation and has since restored the recruitment portal with its original contents.

“Successful candidates are advised to ignore this deliberate antics of desperate groups bent on destroying the good work of the commission.

“The commission is committed to giving the nation a merit based and inclusive recruitment exercise.

“It will continue to ensure that federal character, gender sensitivity and merit are the bedrock of its recruitment process,” he said.

Ani, therefore, urged those behind the circulated statement to desist from undermining the recruitment exercise, adding that, anyone caught would be dealt with.

“The portal is now fully functional and accessible hence, candidates can now log in and access all its features without any disruptions. Ani said (NAN)

IMC/MAM/AMM

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Edited by Modupe Adeloye and Abiemwense Moru

Cooperation

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

Calabar, June 25, 2024 (NAN) The Eastern Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy has engaged about 12 military and paramilitary agencies on inter agency cooperation to enhance the country’s security.

This was disclosed by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Adm. Saheed Akinwande during the command’s 2024 inter-agency seminar in Calabar on Tuesday.

The seminar has as it theme: “Strengthening Inter Agency Cooperation Amongst Security agencies At The Tactical Level: a Panacea For Operational Effectiveness”.

Speaking on the basis of the seminar, Akinwande said the complex nature of Nigeria’s security challenges required mutual trust to meet the challenges .

“I will like to stress that the complex nature of security challenges demands that security agencies emplace a very robust, collaborative arrangements that will foster common understanding of security challenges, mutual trust as well as intelligence sharing to meet the challenges.

“We want to talk directly to the lower cadre, our men out there in the field.

“We expect that at the end of the seminar, the outcome will foster that much needed inter agency collaboration, cooperation, mutual trust and common understanding among them as far as meeting  contemporary and complex national security challenges that confront us,” he said.

Speaking on the theme, Dr Ubong Essien, a resource person, emphasised that security agents are a reflection of their agencies.

He stressed that a big problem lies with the agents, adding that every security agency must moderate, sanction and also look inward at what the agent does at the tactical level.

Also speaking on the sub topic: “Importance of Building Trust And Communication Among Security Agencies”, Essien said that lack of trust among security agencies made it difficult to cooperate.

This, he said, was made difficult by the environment and information age we are in.

He said that the organisational culture of an agency could change a lot and this culture should reflect in the character of the agent.

On his part, Dr Atehle George, whose lecture was titled: “Conflict Resolution And Mediation Techniques: A Solution for Effective Interagency Collaboration”, urged security agencies to avoid cross cutting mandates, focus on their mandates and not position.

He added that no agency is superior to the other and that collaboration and partnership is for the overall development of the society.

In his closing remarks, the Chief Staff Officer, Headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Adm. Ebiobowei Zipele, said that every agency remained  unique in its own way, adding that there is no place for superiority of agencies. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

ESI/CHOM/DOE

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Dianabasi Effiong