15th November, 2012
Simon Ateba/Aviation correspondent
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, on Thursday destroyed drugs it estimated to be worth N13.6 billion, about $87 million
The agency said that heroin hidden in woollen carpets and footballs as well as other seized and forfeited narcotics were destroyed today in Badagry, Lagos, southwest Nigeria.
About 12.6 tons of illicit drugs were said to have been destroyed according to a statement by Mitchell Ofoyeju, NDLEA Head of Public Affairs.
The total weight of drugs destroyed in compliance with court order is 12,676.121kg, NDLEA said, explaining that the quantity includes 12,543.260kg of cannabis, 76.341kg of heroin, 43.770kg of cocaine, 3.600kg of methamphetamine and 9.15kg of amphetamine.
“Any society that fails to destroy drugs will end up being destroyed by drugs. Cannabis like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine has serious consequences on health, economy and security of a nation. We shall not take any decision that will ruin the future of our youths who are the leaders of tomorrow,” NDLEA Chairman Ahamdu Giade said.
Giade also kicked against arguments that cannabis should be legalised for medical reasons, saying that medical or recreational reasons are not enough.
“Let it be made clear that Nigeria is not considering legalising cannabis or any other narcotic drugs for recreational use. The future of our youths is greater than any recreational consideration,” Giade said.