The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major breakthrough in its crackdown on drug trafficking networks, following an interim forfeiture order granted by the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt for 17 containers loaded with illicit opioids valued at over N33.6 billion.
The shipments, intercepted at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State, between April and September 2025, contained large quantities of controlled substances, including 19.6 million pills of Tramadol, Tafrodol, Tapentadol, and Carisoprodol, alongside 2.49 million bottles of Codeine syrup. The total estimated street value of the seized drugs stands at N33.69 billion.
The order was issued by Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed following an ex parte application filed by the NDLEA on February 10, 2026. In his ruling, the court directed that the 17 containers, which hold 365,657 kilograms of psychotropic substances illegally imported into the country, be forfeited to the Federal Government pending the final determination of the case. The court also granted custody of the containers and their contents to the NDLEA.
Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the forfeiture as a decisive blow to the financial backbone of drug cartels.
He said the move goes beyond seizure, effectively depriving criminal networks of resources intended to fuel illicit activities and harm vulnerable populations.
Marwa noted that the action sends a strong signal that proceeds from drug trafficking will not be allowed to finance terrorism or other criminal enterprises in Nigeria.
He commended the judiciary for its prompt intervention and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in combating drug abuse and trafficking.
The NDLEA boss also praised officers of the agency, particularly those at the Onne Port Command, for their vigilance and professionalism, which led to the discovery of the concealed drugs.
He further acknowledged the support of sister agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, as well as international partners whose intelligence sharing and technical assistance contributed to the successful operation.
The agency reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and curbing the spread of illicit substances across the country.