Abuja, Nigeria — The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed strong support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its ongoing mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse throughout the country. HURIWA’s national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, made the remarks in a statement celebrating the agency’s efforts.
The association praised Brigadier General Mohammed Marwa (rtd) and the NDLEA leadership for their commitment and professionalism in addressing the challenges posed by drug syndicates. HURIWA noted the NDLEA’s operations in key areas, including Lagos, Enugu, Kwara, Taraba, and Zamfara, as crucial to restoring public confidence in the government’s ability to dismantle networks that threaten the youth and vulnerable populations.
Highlighting the effectiveness of recent law enforcement actions, HURIWA pointed to a significant operation at the Proxy Night Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, where over 100 individuals were arrested, including the establishment’s owner. Additionally, they emphasized the successful interception of cocaine intended for the United Kingdom, discovered cleverly disguised in cream containers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
The organization also referenced the seizure of tramadol, methamphetamine, and other dangerous substances across several states, illustrating a comprehensive strategy to disrupt the illicit drug supply chain both domestically and internationally. These efforts are seen as part of the NDLEA’s intelligence-led approach, which has garnered successes in reducing drug access and distribution.
Despite these achievements, HURIWA condemned a recent violent assault on NDLEA personnel and their military counterparts in Edo State. Drug cultivators ambushed the officers during an operation aimed at eradicating cannabis cultivation, an attack HURIWA labeled as a “criminal act of defiance.” The group characterized this incident as an alarming threat to the nation’s sovereignty and a challenge to lawful enforcement operations.
“The assault on NDLEA personnel represents not only a reprehensible act but a direct affront to our country’s commitment to tackling drug-related issues,” the statement asserted. HURIWA decried the persistence of criminal networks resorting to violence as they attempt to obstruct anti-drug efforts.
Furthermore, the rights group urged both the government and the public to rally behind the NDLEA’s critical mission, emphasizing that the challenge of drug abuse transcends mere law enforcement and requires a united and collective societal response. The organization underscored that this battle necessitates collaborative action from all sectors of society.
In light of these ongoing challenges, HURIWA called on the government to allocate additional resources to the NDLEA. Enhanced funding and support will strengthen the agency’s operational capabilities and improve the prosecution of those involved in drug trafficking offenses, ensuring a robust fight against the pervasive drug problem in Nigeria.