Investigate farmland buyers to stop drug labs in your communities – Marwa urges traditional rulers

NDLEA Chairman Urges Vigilance Against Drug Cartels in Rural Areas

Ogun State, Nigeria — Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retired), Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has urged traditional rulers and community leaders to rigorously evaluate individuals seeking to acquire farmlands in rural areas. This initiative aims to prevent drug cartels from establishing clandestine laboratories in these remote locations.

Marwa’s remarks were made during the 10th Akinale Day celebration and the first coronation anniversary of the Towulade of Owu Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adeniran, on Saturday at the Baptist Primary School in the Ewekoro Local Government Area.

He highlighted the agency’s recent success in dismantling a methamphetamine laboratory worth an estimated 480 billion naira, operated by a Nigerian-Mexican in Abidagba Forest, Ogun State, in May.

During his address, Marwa emphasized the vital role that traditional authorities play in combating drug abuse, urging them to establish community-based advocacy networks and rehabilitation programs for addiction victims.

Additionally, he called on parents to return to values of responsible parenting, warning youths against the dangers of substance abuse, which he characterized as a “false escape.”

“To our parents, I urge you to monitor your children, recognize early signs of behavioral changes, and provide the love and guidance they need,” Marwa said. “Substance abuse is not a solution; it only exacerbates problems.”

He stressed that Nigeria is facing a “silent but devastating war” against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, warning that drug abuse does not discriminate between social classes.

Marwa praised Oba Oluseyi Adeniran for his leadership qualities, including empathy and a commitment to community welfare.

Former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun also addressed attendees, congratulating the Towulade on his coronation anniversary and encouraging newly appointed chiefs to view their titles as a mandate for selfless service to the community.

In his opening remarks, Oba Adeniran expressed gratitude to Marwa for his support and acknowledged the NDLEA’s ongoing anti-drug initiatives. He also thanked the community for their contributions to local development.

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