The Abia State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made significant strides in its anti-drug operations, seizing approximately 1.94 million kilograms of illicit drugs and arresting 222 suspects over the past year.
The Acting State Commander, Mr. Chigbu Odoemelam Chilee, disclosed this on Tuesday during a media briefing in Aba, as part of a week-long programme leading up to the 2025 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, marked annually on June 26.
Chilee described the current drug abuse situation in Abia as “alarming,” citing the volume of drugs seized and the growing number of individuals seeking rehabilitation as clear indicators of a widespread crisis.
“In the past year alone, we seized over 1.94 million kilograms of various illicit drugs including cannabis sativa, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine (locally known as mkpurummiri), diazepam, and codeine,” he stated.
Arrests and Rehabilitation Efforts
According to Chilee, 222 suspects—mostly young people—were arrested across the state, particularly in Aba and Umuahia, identified as major drug abuse and trafficking hotspots. He explained that the NDLEA approaches the fight on two fronts: supply reduction, involving seizures and arrests, and demand reduction, which covers sensitisation and rehabilitation.
“Abia NDLEA has one of the best rehabilitation centres in the country based on client numbers and recovery rates,” he said. “However, we currently operate only one rehab centre in Aba. Thanks to Governor Alex Otti, plans are underway to establish another in Umuahia.”
Gender and Stigma Challenges
The commander noted that the majority of those admitted into rehabilitation are men, though he clarified this does not mean women are less affected.
“There are likely societal factors like cultural stigma, religious beliefs, and fear of discrimination that discourage women from seeking help,” he added.
United Nations Day Activities
Highlighting the ongoing awareness campaign themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” Chilee said the command has embarked on several initiatives ahead of the UN Day:
- A drug-free walk in Umuahia
- Sensitisation at mosques and churches, including the Christ Embassy Church in Aba
- A novelty football match between NDLEA officers and rehabilitation clients
- Media outreach and educational campaigns
Community Collaboration Needed
Chilee urged communities to support the NDLEA’s efforts, stressing that the agency cannot win the war on drugs alone.
“After this campaign, the State Drug Control Committee, inaugurated in Umuahia, will lead sustained efforts to curb drug abuse. The public must cooperate with us and report suspicious activity.”
Also speaking, Ikechukwu Akunne, the NDLEA Command’s Public Relations Officer, announced that the main event marking the UN Day will take place at the Police Officers’ Mess, where stakeholders are expected to unveil more strategic approaches to prevention.
The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to making Abia State unsafe for drug traffickers and promised an intensification of operations in both urban and rural areas.
