The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, said it destroyed cannabis farms covering 77.512,2197 hectares with an estimated yield of 193,491.1kg since January 2025.
Mitchell Ofoyeju, the State Commander of the agency, disclosed this on Wednesday in Benin City during a meeting with the Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Jerry Uwangue.
Ofoyeju, who called for the confiscation of the affected farmlands by the state government, said the lands would have contributed immensely to easing food insecurity in the state if they had been properly utilised.
He added that the prosecution of cannabis cultivators would serve as a deterrent to others and guide future farmers away from illicit crops.
He said these actions form part of the agency’s strategies to address the problem of cannabis cultivation in the state and to strengthen drug control measures aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Ofoyeju disclosed that the destruction was carried out across nine cannabis farms since January 2025.
While underscoring the NDLEA’s commitment to rid the state of illegal drugs, he acknowledged the promise of Alternative Development programmes.
“Cannabis cultivation is criminal, and the Agency is adopting a comprehensive approach in tackling the problem. Besides law enforcement measures, the Agency under the leadership of Brig. General Buba Marwa is implementing the Alternative Development programme which encourages cannabis cultivators to abandon the plant for licit food and cash crops.
“By working together with the Ministry of Agriculture, we can create viable alternatives that discourage illegal activities and empower our farmers”, he said.
Ofoyeju said key issues discussed during the meeting included identifying vulnerable farming communities and implementing training programmes to educate farmers about sustainable and profitable crops.
“We also addressed the legal frameworks required for the confiscation and the forfeiture of land used for illegal drug cultivation.
“With the promotion of crops such as cassava, maize, cocoa and vegetables that are in high demand, the initiative aims to foster resilience among local farmers and deter illicit drug production”, he stated.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security acknowledged the critical role the NDLEA plays in combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the state.
Uwangue emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach between agricultural and law enforcement agencies to address the growing challenge of illegal drug cultivation.
“The fight against drug cultivation and trafficking is not just the responsibility of law enforcement; it requires a concerted effort that includes sustainable agricultural practices.
“Our aim is to provide alternative livelihoods for farmers engaged in cannabis cultivation, thereby promoting food security and economic development in the state,” he stated
