Cannabis Farms Fuelling Insecurity in Edo – NDLEA

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned that cannabis cultivation is fuelling kidnapping, arms proliferation, cultism and youth exploitation in Edo.

The State Commander of NDLEA, Dr Mitchell Ofoyeju made the disclosure on Tuesday at the Edo Central Senatorial District Town Hall Meeting organised by Sen. Joseph Ikpea in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state.

Ofoyeju, presented an assessment titled: “Cannabis Cultivation and Rural Insecurity in Edo Central.”

The NDLEA boss said forestland previously used for legitimate agriculture were increasingly being converted into cannabis plantations.

“What started as hidden plots has grown into large-scale cannabis farms and a chain of insecurity.

“Where cannabis takes root, crime follows, and where cannabis grows, development dies,” he said.

The commander said effective drug control could significantly reduce crime, noting that many criminal acts were perpetrated under the influence of drugs.

He said cannabis cultivation had created a violent ecosystem threatening rural communities and encouraging criminal activities.

Ofoyeju identified arms proliferation, displacement of food farming and exploitation of vulnerable youths among the consequences of cannabis cultivation.

He said legitimate farmers lived in constant fear of attacks, limiting their access to farmlands and undermining food production.

The commander also raised concerns over environmental pollution associated with cannabis cultivation and the broader impact of illicit drug activities.

He linked substance abuse to health problems and the growth of cultism and violent criminality in the state.

“Drugs make cult members bold and reckless. They stop caring about human life or rules,” Ofoyeju said.

He identified tramadol, codeine, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine among substances fuelling violent clashes and organised criminal activities.

According to him, such activities include kidnapping, extortion, cultism and gun running.

Ofoyeju said the NDLEA has adopted a multi-pronged approach centred on community ownership and stakeholder engagement.

He listed confidential community intelligence networks among measures being considered to strengthen information gathering and response.

He also proposed quarterly stakeholder meetings, involving traditional rulers, youth leaders and women groups.

He said that other measures will include joint operations to destroy cannabis farms and support for alternative livelihoods.

The commander said the NDLEA would promote skill acquisition, start-up grants and toolkits for people willing to embrace alternative livelihoods.

Ikpea, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, commended the commander for the presentation.

“I am delighted with this presentation on a topical issue affecting all segments of society,” Ikpea said.

He said his committee is working to address the drug problem and pledged to support efforts to protect his constituency from drug abuse.

“While my committee is working hard to address the drug problem in the country, I will ensure that my constituency is free from the ravaging effects of drugs,” he said.

The senator urged stakeholders to take ownership of the fight against drug trafficking and illicit cultivation.

He said the NDLEA in Edo remained committed to protecting forests from cannabis plantations and securing the future of young people.

He said the command’s vision would contribute to a drug-free, safe and prosperous Edo.