In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Benin City, Edo State, sentenced seven individuals, including a physically challenged woman, to a combined 93 years in prison for various drug-related crimes.
Notably, this judgment, delivered in July, stemmed from seven distinct cases overseen by Justices Prof. Chuka Obiozor and J. B. O. Quadiri.
According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo, the convictions have now been confirmed.
Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju explained that out of 15 drug cases filed in July, seven resulted in successful prosecutions.
These convictions involved five men and two women. Meanwhile, 113 other cases remain active across the state.
Furthermore, Ofoyeju stressed that physical disability cannot serve as a cover for criminal behavior.
He clearly noted that these convictions send a strong and direct message: the law applies equally to all.
“Anyone who breaks the law, regardless of their physical condition, must face justice,” he said.
Therefore, he urged communities to support the NDLEA’s ongoing anti-drug efforts, led by Brig. General Mohamed Buba-Marwa (retd).
According to him, strong court rulings help deter future offenders and reinforce the agency’s credibility.
Among the convicts, Rita Idehen, from Oredo Local Government Area, received 15 years for possessing and dealing in cannabis sativa (2.5 kg), Loud (1.8 grams), and Swinol (2.2 grams).
In her case, the sentence came with an option of a N3 million fine.
Similarly, Risikatu Tijani, a resident of Osogbo in Osun State, faced 17 years in prison or a N4 million fine after being caught with 8.701 kg of cannabis and 42 grams of methamphetamine.
In another instance, Friday Robert from Owan West LGA, Edo, was convicted of possessing and transporting 22 kg of cannabis sativa.
He received 15 years or a N3 million fine. Authorities also seized his motorcycle, which was used during the crime.
Moreover, in Delta State, Etimesy Stephen from Ndokwa West LGA cultivated nearly 0.6 hectares of cannabis.
The court gave him a 15-year sentence or a N1.5 million fine.
Likewise, Salami Philip Timothy from Etsako West LGA held multiple banned substances including Tramadol, Danabol, and codeine syrup. He received 15 years or a N3 million fine.
Additionally, Christopher Tanko from Kagarko LGA, Kaduna State, got 15 years or a N5 million fine for holding drugs such as methamphetamine, Rohypnol, and cocaine.
Lastly, Henry Bitrus Okoye from Esan South East LGA received the shortest sentence.
The court gave him one year or a N1 million fine for possessing 1.068 kg of cannabis sativa.
Altogether, these convictions demonstrate the NDLEA’s firm commitment to a drug-free Nigeria.
With continued legal support and public cooperation, the agency aims to uphold public safety and justice across the country.
