Operatives of the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have destroyed over 18,000 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa in a single raid targeting cannabis cultivators in the state.

Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, while giving a brief on the recent dislodgement of the cannabis plantation cell, disclosed that the operation was carried out on September 11, 2025, at Ugbogui Forest, in Ovia South West Local Government Area of the State.

Ofoyeju, who warned that the disturbing development poses a serious threat to food security in the state, said: “The massive cannabis farm destruction operation, which was based on actionable intelligence, is threatening food security.”

“If these forests can be utilised only for the cultivation of food and cash crops, the challenge of food shortage will be adequately addressed.”

“This operation obviously underscores the agency’s commitment to combating drug cultivation in the State, thereby reinforcing our efforts to rid our communities of the dangers posed by illicit drugs.

“The Edo State Command has taken a bold step to cut off the illicit supply of cannabis with the destruction of a vast Cannabis sativa plantation spanning approximately 6.79 hectares, with an estimated yield of over 16,966 kilograms.

“At the farm, we successfully recovered one hundred and twelve bags of harvested and processed cannabis weighing 1,176 kilograms,” Mitchell stated.

“Four male suspects linked to the cannabis plantation were apprehended during the operation while taking refuge at their tents located within the farm. Three of them are from Akwa Ibom State, while one hails from Delta State. They have been identified as Ebenezer E. Wang, 48 years old, from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Oshare John, 45 years old, from Ughelli South, Delta State. Others are Emmanuel Monday, 29 years old, from Eket, Akwa Ibom State, and David Sunday, 30 years old, from Ugad, Akwa Ibom State.

The NDLEA commander, while stating that investigations are underway, said the suspects are expected to face charges in court soon.
Ofoyeju, who urged the public to continue providing intelligence to support the fight against drug-related crimes, stated that the NDLEA remains vigilant in promoting public health and safety.