The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has responded sharply to allegations of corruption made by Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru, who represents Kwara South Senatorial District. During a press briefing at its National Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, October 21, 2024, the NDLEA dismissed the senator’s claims, stating they were driven by a personal vendetta rather than any genuine national interest.
The agency’s response came after Senator Ashiru described the NDLEA as the “most corrupt and compromised government agency” in Nigeria during a Senate plenary session. The NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, expressed disappointment over the senator’s remarks, calling them “unfounded” and “unfortunate.”
The NDLEA revealed that the senator’s accusations stem from previous encounters between the agency and individuals linked to him. In February 2024, the NDLEA raided Senator Ashiru’s residence in the GRA area of Ilorin, Kwara State, recovering drugs and illicit substances and arresting two of his aides, Ibrahim Mohammed and Muhammed Yahaya. The agency stated that the senator’s house was being used as a drug joint for dealers and users based on credible intelligence and surveillance.
In another incident, the NDLEA received intelligence that some of the senator’s associates, known as ‘Omo Senator,’ were involved in drug trafficking in Offa. A raid on their joint led to the arrest of Oluwatosin Odepidan, who was found in possession of methamphetamine and cannabis on June 11, 2023. Despite attempts by the senator’s personal assistant, Omoluabi, to influence the case, Odepidan was charged to court, prosecuted, and convicted in June 2024.
The NDLEA emphasized that these legal encounters were likely the root cause of Senator Ashiru’s recent outburst, describing his allegations as a retaliatory move. The agency highlighted its continued success in combating drug abuse and trafficking, receiving commendations from local and international bodies for its efforts.
Despite the senator’s claims, the NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to its mandate, stating it would not be distracted by Ashiru’s allegations and would continue dismantling drug networks across the country, including those allegedly operating within the senator’s circle.
