NDLEA Arrests 65 in Abia, Seizes 82kg of Dr-ugs as Gov. Otti Pushes for Tougher Laws Against Cartels

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command, has announced the arrest of 65 suspects and seizure of 82 kilograms of illicit substances between June and August 2025.

The new State Commandant, Mr. Joseph Owoputi, disclosed this during a familiarisation visit to Governor Alex Otti on Friday. He revealed that within the period under review, seven convictions were secured, 12 cases are currently being prosecuted, while 38 individuals are undergoing counselling and rehabilitation at the command’s facility.

Owoputi pledged to consolidate on the successes of his predecessor while appealing for the state government’s support in providing operational vehicles to boost their activities.

In response, Governor Otti called for tougher legislation against drug dealers, insisting that the current laws are too lenient and fuel rising crime rates linked to drug abuse.

“Over 90 percent of crimes are connected to drug abuse,” Otti stressed. “We must crack down on the cartels because if you destroy the source, you cut off the supply chain. Unfortunately, the law is too soft. We need to lobby the National Assembly for stricter punishments to discourage our youths from going into drugs.”

The governor emphasized that drug abuse remains one of the biggest threats to education, security, and the future of young people in the state.