The newly appointed Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Enugu State, Mr. Paul Audu, has declared an all-out war against drug trafficking and substance abuse, pledging to intensify enforcement efforts and dismantle criminal networks operating across the state.Speaking during his maiden press briefing in Enugu on Wednesday, Audu said the command would adopt a more aggressive strategy in tackling drug-related crimes, with a renewed focus on asset recovery alongside arrests and prosecutions.
According to him, the command will vigorously enforce the Proceeds of Crime Recovery and Management Act by identifying and confiscating assets acquired through illicit drug trafficking.He explained that drug syndicates derive much of their power from the wealth accumulated through illegal activities, stressing that stripping traffickers of their assets would serve as a strong deterrent.Audu noted that his experience in tracing and recovering proceeds of crime would be deployed to dismantle the financial structures sustaining drug trafficking operations in Enugu State.”I have come to fight drugs, and there will be no room for compromise.
If anyone has information about any of my officers engaging in shady deals, report directly to me, and appropriate action will be taken,” he said.Expanded War Against Drug Abuse CampaignThe NDLEA commander also announced plans to strengthen the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign by expanding awareness and sensitisation programmes to communities across Enugu State.He said the initiative would focus on educating vulnerable youths and drug users about the dangers and long-term consequences of substance abuse while encouraging preventive measures at the grassroots.Audu warned individuals involved in drug trafficking and other illicit drug-related activities to abandon the trade or face arrest, prosecution, and forfeiture of assets.
Describing drug abuse as a serious threat to Nigeria’s youth, public safety, and socio-economic development, he stressed that collective action was needed to curb the growing menace.Calls for Public SupportThe commander described the media as a critical partner in the fight against illicit drugs, noting that public enlightenment and timely dissemination of information are essential to winning the battle.He appealed to journalists and members of the public to provide credible intelligence on suspected drug-related activities, assuring them that the command would respond promptly to actionable information.
Warning to Patent Medicine VendorsAudu also cautioned patent medicine vendors against stocking or selling controlled substances, describing the practice as illegal.He explained that only licensed pharmacies are permitted to dispense controlled medications and only upon presentation of valid medical prescriptions.Zero Tolerance for CorruptionReaffirming the agency’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption, Audu warned that any NDLEA officer found colluding with drug traffickers or engaging in unethical conduct would face strict disciplinary measures.He disclosed that he had already begun consultations with traditional rulers across Enugu State, including an early visit to a prominent monarch shortly after assuming office.
According to him, traditional institutions, local government authorities, and community leaders will play key roles in grassroots sensitisation, intelligence gathering, and community engagement.Audu assured residents that the NDLEA Enugu State Command, with the support of its officers, the agency’s leadership, and the Federal Government, remains fully committed to combating drug trafficking, reducing substance abuse, and restoring public confidence in the fight against illicit drugs.This version is structured for online news publication with clear subheadings, improved flow, and an SEO-friendly format.
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