By Bavoriat Clara
In a decisive move to dismantle the financial foundations of drug trafficking networks, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has auctioned off several properties forfeited by convicted drug offenders across Nigeria.
The public auction, which took place across Lagos, Kano, Ondo, and Ogun States, involved eight properties either acquired through illicit drug proceeds or directly used to facilitate narcotic crimes.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), in a message delivered by the agency’s Secretary, Mr. Shadrack Haruna, described the auction as a strategic enforcement mechanism aimed at stripping drug traffickers of their criminal assets.
“This auction is part of our broader commitment to transparency and justice. Beyond prosecuting drug offenders, we are committed to ensuring that the financial incentives that drive these crimes are neutralized through legal forfeiture,” Marwa stated.
He emphasized that the agency’s efforts extend beyond courtroom convictions, aiming to inflict financial consequences on drug dealers as a stronger deterrent.
“When drug traffickers know they stand to lose everything including their ill-gotten assets it sends a stronger message than imprisonment alone,” he added.
NDLEA spokesperson, Mr. Femi Babafemi, disclosed that although eight properties were initially listed for auction, two located in the Lekki and Ikorodu areas of Lagos were stepped down from the process due to notices of appeal received after the bidding process had commenced.
“Six properties were successfully auctioned to pre-qualified bidders. Of those, two sold above their reserved prices, fetching over N139 million. Others either received no bids or offers that fell below benchmark expectations,” Babafemi explained. Independent observers hailed the transparency of the auction process.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Umar Yakubu of the Centre for Transparency and Integrity Watch praised the NDLEA for upholding international best practices.
“The transparency displayed during the bidding process is not only commendable but also a testament to NDLEA’s institutional integrity and public accountability,” Yakubu said.
He urged the agency to continue showcasing such operations as a public education tool to reinforce the consequences of drug-related crimes.
The auction marks a significant milestone in NDLEA’s intensified crackdown on drug trafficking, as it continues to deploy legal, financial, and operational strategies to dismantle criminal drug networks nationwide.