The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it will intensify raids on identified drug flashpoints across the state ahead of the election season, as part of efforts to curb drug-related violence and ensure a peaceful poll.
Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, gave the assurance in Benin City while receiving the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Barr. Obo Effanga, who sought renewed collaboration with the agency, noting that drug abuse has remained a key driver of electoral violence.
Ofoyeju pledged sustained enforcement before, during, and after the elections, stressing that illicit drugs would be targeted to deny criminal elements the capacity to disrupt the process.
In a related engagement, Ofoyeju also hosted the President of the Faculty of Peace Organisation, Comrade Osunbor Kelly Omokaro, who called for stronger partnership on drug prevention and youth sensitisation.
The NDLEA Commander welcomed the collaboration, saying efforts to combat drug abuse require joint action from government and civil society.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen